close
close

Kecia Lewis Demands Apology from Patti Lupone for ‘Hell’s Kitchen’ Comments

Posted on by L. Dreeye
Kecia Lewis Demands Apology from Patti Lupone for ‘Hell’s Kitchen’ Comments

Hell’s Kitchen Star Kecia Lewis demanded an apology from Patti LuPone on Saturday after the Broadway legend called the show “too loud” and demanded that its sound cues be changed.

In a five-minute video posted to social media, Lewis called Lupone’s actions “offensive,” “racially microaggressive,” “rude” and “rooted in privilege.”

Lewis clarified that her message “is from me and not from the cast, crew or producers of the film.” Hell’s Kitchen. I speak only for Keisha Lewis.” She recounted several interactions between LuPone and the show (for which Lewis won a Tony Award this year), during which LuPone contacted Hell’s Kitchen A theater owner on changing some of the sound signals because “you thought they were too loud.”

Lupone’s play Roommatecurrently playing at the Shubert Theater, which shares a wall with the Booth Theater, which houses Hell’s Kitchen.

“After our sound design was adjusted, (you) sent flowers to our sound and stage management team thanking them,” Lewis added. She also included a clip of LuPone telling a fan that he would not be signing the contract. Hell’s Kitchen poster because the show is “too loud.”

“I want to explain what microaggressions are,” Lewis said. “These are subtle, unintentional comments or actions that convey stereotypes, prejudices, or negative assumptions about someone based on their race. Microaggressions may seem harmless or minor, but can accumulate and cause significant stress or discomfort for the recipient. Examples include loudly calling out Black shows and ignoring them.”

She continued: “In our industry, language is powerful and shapes perception, often in ways we are not immediately aware of. Referring to a predominantly black Broadway show as loud can unintentionally reinforce harmful stereotypes, as well as promote disdain for the artistry and voices that are celebrated on stage. Comments like these can be seen as racial microaggressions that have a real impact on both artists and audiences. While gestures such as sending thank you flowers may seem polite, they were dismissive and inappropriate, especially after your official complaint, which led to changes that affected our entire production, especially the people who have to go on stage and perform . ”

She went on to ask for collaboration between the two shows, which would mean “direct communication, respect for the work being done, and an understanding of how activities resonate across different teams.”

Lewis said that without cooperation, she considers LuPone’s actions to be bullying, and that “professional bullying may include exerting influence to prevent one’s status or connections from being used to force unnecessary changes in another’s work environment, such as demanding reasonable adjustments.”

She explained that “performative gestures are also bullying, and what I mean by that is that sending flowers of thanks after they’ve impacted a production can be perceived as insincere, especially if it detracts from meaningful dialogue or resolution.”

“I would like to ask some thoughtful questions to veterans like you and me,” Lewis concluded. “How can I ensure that my feedback or my concerns are conveyed in a constructive and, most importantly, respectful way? How can I use my platform and experience to support diverse show teams promoting the idea that every production brings unique value to Broadway?”

Lewis said that answering these questions “can help veterans like you and me, among other things, positively reflect our impact in the Broadway community and promote a culture of respect, compassion and inclusivity” and that “on Broadway, we’re not just neighbors; Ms. Capone, we are a community that shares each other’s skills and challenges. Respect and collaboration are what help us thrive and inspire the next generation.”

Hollywood Reporter reached out to Patti LuPone for comment on Lewis’ open letter.