Review: HELL'S KITCHEN at Broadway In Tucson
The songs by Alicia Keys are catchy, the dancing is electric, and the pacing is fast.
HELL'S KITCHEN roars to life at Broadway in Tucson this week. It's a powerful story about Ali (Maya Drake), a rebellious 17-year-old in Hell's Kitchen (hence the title) who wants to be independent and make music. The songs by Alicia Keys are catchy, the dancing is electric, and the pacing is fast. With taut direction by Michael Greif, the musical never slows down and easily holds the audience's attention. The book by Kristoffer Diaz has a razor-sharp wit and moves the plot along nicely. I was fully immersed in the world of the show, for the entire runtime.
Opening night had a strong ensemble sound, crisp choreography by Camille A. Brown, and a booming live band led by Emily Orr. There was also a hold that lasted a little over a half hour after the performance started. I was glad that the production company put actor safety first and halted the performance for as long as needed to resolve technical issues. The audience was enthusiastic and supportive once the show came back onstage and rewarded the hard work of the performers with a well-deserved standing ovation. Jaylen T. Bryant also stepped in during Act II to play Knuck, and put in a fantastic performance. Live theatre is unpredictable, and this company should be commended for their perseverance and excellent work product.
Maya Drake is outstanding in the role of Ali. Spunky, feisty, and full of life, Maya's Ali is the center point of the story and delivers on all fronts. Vocally she is a powerhouse and able to navigate tricky passages and riffs while slowing down to render more intimate and introspective moments. Drake's intonation is reliable and she makes great choices that preserve her ability to sing healthily throughout the show. As an actor and dancer Drake is also at the top of her game. She is a true triple threat.
Sherée Marcelle Dunwell went on last night for Jersey, Ali's mother. She is an absolute force of nature and brought the house down with "Pawn It All." Dunwell has range and grit in her sound. Her phonation is even, with an unmatched strength and versatility. Once again, Dunwell completed an understudy track last night, and it was one of the strongest vocal performances I have seen by an understudy in my life. Dunwell didn't even need a microphone. Her projection and resonance carried to the back of the theatre and got the most responsive applause.
Roz White portrays Miss Liza Jane, Ali's mentor and piano teacher. Her rendition of "Perfect Way to Die" sent chills up my spine. White's voice is rich and polished, with decades of experience and expertise behind it. The bond between teacher and student that grounds this show needs to feel real, and it does here thanks to the palpable chemistry between White and Drake. My favorite parts in the show were the simple and quiet moments between the two of them at the piano.
HELL'S KITCHEN is a show best enjoyed with a large crowd. It is a crowd-pleaser. There is some adult content and language, but discerning teens and adults can handle it. The show is packed to the brim with gorgeous music and eye-popping visuals. It was worth the wait after the hold and was one of the most joyous theatrical experiences I have had the pleasure to witness. Do yourself a favor and go down to Centennial Hall and see HELL'S KITCHEN before it's gone. Broadwayintucson.com. Photo: Marc J Franklin
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