Hell's Kitchen has welcomed a new resident. Grammy Award-winning R&B artist Ne-Yo joined the cast as Davis beginning December 4, marking his Broadway debut. See the singer-songwriter—whose hits include "Let Me Love You," "Because of You," "Closer"—make his first curtain call in the Alicia Keys musical at the Shubert Theatre on Broadway in the video below.
“I’ve performed on a lot of stages in my life, but making my Broadway debut in Hell's Kitchen is something truly special,” said Ne-Yo in an earlier statement. “Alicia created a world that’s real, raw, and full of soul, and stepping into the role of ‘Davis’ lets me explore a whole new side of storytelling. I’m honored to join this incredible cast and creative team, and I can’t wait to bring everything I’ve got to the Shubert Theatre.”
Ne-Yo's previous musical theatre experience include playing The Tin Man in NBC’s The Wiz Live! He takes over for Durrell "Tank" Babbs in the role of Davis.
Hell's Kitchen features music and lyrics by 17-time Grammy winner Keys and a book by Kristoffer Diaz. Inspired by the recording artist's life, the story centers on 17-year-old Ali and her mother, sharing a cramped apartment near Times Square. Ali wants to live out her NYC dream, but Jersey is scared her daughter will repeat her own mistakes. Ali is further confused when her estranged father—Davis, who is a musician—comes back into her life.
This is the latest cast change at the long-running musical. The cast is currently led by Amanda Reid as Ali, Kelsee Kimmel as Jersey, Lamont Walker II as Knuck, and Kecia Lewis as Miss Liza Jane.
It was previously announced Tony Award winner Lewis will depart the production December 13, with Yolanda Adams stepping in as piano teacher Miss Liza Jane.
The show opened at the Shubert Theatre April 20, 2024, after beginning previews March 28—read the reviews here. Michael Greif directs the work, which features choreography by Camille A. Brown.
The music team includes music director Lily Ling and orchestrators Adam Blackstone and Tom Kitt with arrangements by Keys and Blackstone. The creative team also includes scenic designer Robert Brill, costume designer Dede Ayite, lighting designer Natasha Katz, sound designer Gareth Owen, projection designer Peter Nigrini, hair and wig designer Mia Neal, and makeup designer Michael Clifton. Foresight Theatrical is general manager, and Danny Maly serves as production stage manager.
The Broadway production was nominated for 13 Tony Awards in 2024, including Best Musical. It won Tonys for Maleah Joi Moon and Lewis' performances, and also took home the Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album.
