Alicia Keys is taking her immense talent from the recording studio to the bright lights of Broadway, not by performing, but by sharing her life story in the new play “Hell’s Kitchen.” Set against the backdrop of her upbringing in New York City and enriched with her soulful music, the play marks a new creative milestone for the 16-time Grammy winner.
Empowering Beginnings
The play, inspired by Keys’ own experiences, features a young woman named Ali, portrayed by Maleah Joi Moon, navigating the complexities of life and relationships in Hell’s Kitchen, just steps away from the Broadway stages. It weaves a poignant narrative of familial love, especially between mother and daughter, mirroring the significant influence of Keys’ own mother in her life. “My mother was and is a big part of my personal story. She’ll be joining me tonight on the blue carpet and I’m so glad to be sharing this milestone with her,” Keys shared with excitement.
A Nod to the ’90s
For the opening night, Keys chose to embrace the era in which her play is set, donning a ’90s inspired ‘wet look’ hairstyle that complemented her denim-on-denim ensemble perfectly for the blue carpet. “This is the ’90s ‘wet look’! The perfect style to match my makeup and my head-to-toe denim for the blue carpet,” she explained, showcasing her knack for thematic dressing.
Beauty Evolution and Empowerment
Long before “no makeup, makeup” became a staple among today’s “it girls,” Alicia Keys was a pioneer of the natural beauty look, advocating for skin positivity and embracing one’s authentic self. Reflecting on her evolution in the beauty space, Keys notes a significant shift in her approach over the years. “When I first started out in the industry, I leaned into the smokey eye and a ’90s brown lip. I experimented with color. At one point in my journey, I felt like I didn’t have control over how I looked, and that’s the biggest change I’ve noticed compared to now,” she recounts.
Exclusive Behind-the-Scenes Look
Ahead of the debut, Keys offered an exclusive look into her preparation process, sharing insights into the products that enhance her naturally glowing skin and the accessories that shout “New York City.” Her look for the evening was not just a personal choice but a powerful statement, embodied in the affirmation etched onto her Keys Soulcare It’s Like Skin Concealer + Tint: “I own my power.”
This Broadway venture is more than just a play; it’s a celebration of Alicia Keys’ journey, her love for New York, and her commitment to empowering others through her art and personal story. “Hell’s Kitchen” promises to be a heartfelt tribute to the vibrant culture and challenging life lessons that New York City offers, all while wrapped in the soulful rhythms of Alicia Keys’ music that continues to resonate with so many.
