Keys was at the show's premiere at the Pantages Theatre, and judging by the crowd's reaction at the curtain call, the L.A. audience is all in.
"Hell's Kitchen" follows a young girl coming of age in the 1990s, telling her story through songs from Keys' catalog and original compositions. And while New York is front and center in the show, Keys believes everyone can relate.
"The story is so universal and really touches on who we are as people, finding our community, finding ways to be uplifted, breaking through the pieces of life that try to hold you back," said Keys. "Thematically it can be anywhere and everywhere because it's inside of you, and that's what you'll feel."
Nineteen-year-old actress Mya Drake, who is from the Bay area, earned the lead role in the touring company. Consider Keys her No. 1 fan!
"Not only does she sing and dance incredibly, but she also has to constantly engage the audience because she breaks the fourth wall all the time," Keys said. "So what she's doing on stage is really magnificent."
Keys says the message she hopes audiences take away from the musical is to celebrate dreams and dreamers. And she promises a flood of emotions!
"You're laughing, you're crying, you're outraged, you're frustrated. You are truly taken on a journey," said Keys. "It's amazing. I feel very grateful and very excited."
"Hell's Kitchen" plays at the Pantages Theatre in Hollywood through June 21.