Kecia Lewis, a Tony Award-winning star of « Hell’s Kitchen, » has demanded an apology from Broadway legend Patti LuPone after LuPone criticized the musical’s volume. In a six-minute Instagram video, Lewis addressed LuPone’s actions, labeling them as harassment and racially micro-aggressive. She emphasized the importance of community and respect within Broadway, expressing concern over how such comments can perpetuate stereotypes. Lewis called for greater equity and inclusivity in the industry, urging fellow performers to uplift one another.
Kecia Lewis Demands an Apology from Patti LuPone
In a recent turn of events, Kecia Lewis, the star of « Hell’s Kitchen, » has called for an apology from Broadway icon Patti LuPone. The request follows LuPone’s remarks describing the jukebox musical as « too loud. »
Addressing Concerns in a Public Message
In a heartfelt six-minute video shared on Instagram, Lewis, who earned a Tony Award this year for her role as Miss Liza Jane in « Hell’s Kitchen, » clarified that her comments were personal and not representative of the production team or producers. She expressed her concern over several incidents involving LuPone, noting that the Broadway star had contacted the theatre owner regarding the volume of their sound cues, which she found excessive. Following adjustments to the sound design, LuPone sent flowers to the sound and stage management team as a gesture of thanks.
Currently, LuPone is performing alongside Mia Farrow in « The Roommate » at the Booth Theatre, which is adjacent to « Hell’s Kitchen » at the Shubert Theatre. In her video, Lewis highlighted a moment where LuPone refused to sign a program for a fan, citing the show’s volume as her reason. Lewis stated, « I want to address this because, Ms. LuPone, these actions are, in my view, harassment. They are offensive, racially micro-aggressive, and rooted in privilege. Furthermore, they lack a sense of community and leadership from someone of your stature. »
Lewis took the opportunity to explain the concept of micro-aggressions, indicating that such subtle, unintended remarks can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and biases based on race. She emphasized that while these comments may seem trivial, they can accumulate and lead to significant discomfort for those on the receiving end. She remarked, « Describing a predominantly Black musical as loud can unintentionally reinforce damaging stereotypes and undermine the artistry celebrated on stage. »
While acknowledging that sending thank-you flowers might appear courteous, Lewis argued that the gesture felt « disparaging and disconnected, » especially after a formal complaint led to changes negatively impacting the entire production, particularly the performers.
Later in her video, Lewis posed reflective questions for seasoned performers like herself and LuPone, encouraging a focus on equity and inclusivity within the Broadway community. She asked, « How can I ensure that my feedback is communicated constructively and respectfully? » and « How can I leverage my platform to support diverse creative teams and promote the unique value each production brings to Broadway? »
In closing, Lewis stated, « On Broadway, we are not just neighbors, Ms. LuPone. We are a community that shares the art and challenges of one another. Respect and collaboration are vital for our growth and the inspiration of future generations. It’s crucial that we uplift one another and recognize that every show on this street called Broadway deserves respect and celebration. Let’s continue to cultivate an environment that acknowledges and values the hard work of everyone both on and off the stage. »