REVIEW | ‘Hell’s Kitchen’ at RBTL

Jukebox musicals tend to fall into two categories: a fabricated story manufactured to cram in as many hit songs as possible, or a biographical sketch of a major artist told using their songs. The 2023 Broadway musical from Alicia Keys falls somewhere in between. “Hell’s Kitchen, ” which runs through November 8 at West Herr Performing Arts Center, brings a ‘90s New York City R&B family love story to the Rochester Broadway Theatre League season. The musical, penned by Alicia Keys and playwright Kristoffer Diaz, features Keys’ biggest hits as well as a few new songs for the show. “Hell’s Kitchen” uses elements of Keys’ adolescent biography — white mom, absent father, being raised in the city, a love of music. However, the events and characters follow a simple coming of age story that’s less about providing insight into Keys or her career and more a vehicle for iconic songs, high-energy dance numbers and a breathtaking visual landscape.

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