The national tour of Hell’s Kitchen — the electrifying new musical inspired by the life and music of Alicia Keys — officially kicked off right here in Cleveland, Ohio. Before the curtain rose, Cleveland Stage Door sat down with star Kennedy Caughell to talk about stepping into the world of Hell’s Kitchen, playing “Jersey,” and channeling the soulful energy that drives the show.
Caughell, who has previously wowed audiences in productions like Beautiful: The Carole King Musical and Wicked, brings both vulnerability and power to the role. In our conversation, she shared what it means to portray such a grounded, emotional character and how she prepares to take that journey every night.
We also asked her which Alicia Keys song she’d love to perform outside the show, her answer might surprise you.
A Fresh Sound and Powerful Story
Set in 1990s New York City, Hell’s Kitchen blends Alicia Keys’ chart-topping hits with an original story about identity, independence, and the transformative power of music. The show has been celebrated for its powerhouse vocals, dynamic choreography, and emotionally charged storytelling.
As the national tour begins its journey across the country, Cleveland audiences were among the first to experience this new Broadway phenomenon, and if Caughell’s performance is any indication, Hell’s Kitchen is destined to inspire audiences everywhere it goes.
🎭 Watch our full interview with Kennedy Caughell below to hear more about her creative process, her favorite moments in the show, and what it means to launch a national tour right here at home in Cleveland.
