Christopher Jackson Exits Hell’s Kitchen on Broadway as Durrell Tank Babbs Announces Comeback
Christopher Jackson to Exit ‘Hell’s Kitchen’ on Broadway; Durrell ‘Tank’ Babbs to Return for Limited Engagement
Tony-nominated actor Christopher Jackson is set to bid farewell to his role in the Alicia Keys musical “Hell’s Kitchen” on November 9 at the Shubert Theatre. Known for his stage and screen prowess, Jackson took on the role of Ali’s estranged father, Davis, in June, marking his first full Broadway run since his celebrated portrayal of George Washington in the original cast of “Hamilton” in 2015. Jackson will perform his final show before handing over the reins to understudies Benjamin H. Moore and Chad Carstarphen throughout the middle of November.
Durrell ‘Tank’ Babbs Returns to Hell’s Kitchen
Beginning November 18, nine-time Grammy nominee Durrell “Tank” Babbs is set to return to “Hell’s Kitchen” for a limited engagement ending November 30. Babbs first made his Broadway debut with this musical last spring. However, audiences should note that Babbs will be absent from performances on November 22 and November 28.
Meet the Current Cast of Hell’s Kitchen
Under the direction of Amanda Reid, the current cast includes standout performers such as Jessica Vosk, Tony Award winner Kecia Lewis, and Phillip Johnson Richardson. The ensemble also features:
- Angela Birchett
- Chad Carstarphen
- Reid Clarke
- Nico DeJesus
- Mykhel Duckett
- Adriel Flete
- Vanessa Ferguson
A Glimpse into the Story
“Hell’s Kitchen” captures the essence of Alicia Keys’ life, focusing on the 17-year-old protagonist, Ali, and her mother. Together, they navigate challenges in a cramped apartment near Times Square. The musical poignantly delves into Ali’s aspirations to live out her New York City dreams, amidst her mother Jersey’s fears of repeating past mistakes. The plot thickens when Ali’s estranged father, Davis, re-enters her life.
The Creative and Production Team Behind the Show
Co-creating this musical landscape are music and lyrics by Alicia Keys, complemented by a book from Kristoffer Diaz. Michael Greif directs, with choreography by Camille A. Brown. The music team comprises music director Lily Ling and orchestrators Adam Blackstone and Tom Kitt. The creative team also features:
- 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
- Makeup Designer Michael Clifton
‘Hell’s Kitchen’ Achievements
Since its opening at the Shubert Theatre on April 20, 2024, following previews that began on March 28, “Hell’s Kitchen” has garnered critical acclaim. The production received 13 Tony Award nominations in 2024, including Best Musical, and won awards for the performances of Maleah Joi Moon and Kecia Lewis. The show also claimed the Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album.
To learn more about the show and its updates, visit Emegypt’s website for “Hell’s Kitchen.”
