One of the crown jewels of Chicago’s summer season is the annual Broadway in Chicago Summer Concert at Millennium Park’s Jay Pritzker Pavilion. Each year, thousands gather to celebrate theater and catch a glimpse of the productions coming to the city. The event is also a gentle reminder that summer is winding down, and a new season of world-class performances is just around the corner.
This year’s 2025 summer preview spotlighted an impressive lineup, including Parade, MJ the Musical, The Sound of Music, Elf the Musical, The Phantom of the Opera, Stereophonic, The Outsiders, The Great Gatsby, Monty Python’s Spamalot, Water for Elephants, Suffs, and Hell’s Kitchen.
The concert was electric—each performance left audiences eager for more. Among the highlights was the Grammy Award-winning and 14-time Tony-nominated musical Hell’s Kitchen. Inspired by the life and music of Alicia Keys, the show is set in 1990s New York City and follows 17-year-old Ali (played by Maya Drake) as she searches for her freedom, identity, and voice. The production blends Keys’ greatest hits with original songs written exclusively for the stage, showcasing her brilliance as both a songwriter and storyteller.
We caught up with Maya Drake, a recent high school graduate who brings Ali to life. Though young, Drake has already built an impressive résumé, having studied with Children’s Musical Theater San Jose and appearing on Law & Order: SVU.
As part of her promotional tour for the musical, Drake has quickly become a familiar face in Chicago. She attended the Bud Billiken Parade VIP Reception, where she announced her role as Ali, visited Apostolic Church of God, where she delivered a moving rendition of CeCe Winans’ Goodness of God, and opened the show with an exclusive private preview.
With its mix of star power, new talent, and stories that resonate, Hell’s Kitchen promises to be one of the most talked-about productions of the fall theater season.
Interview with Maya Drake: Star of Hell’s Kitchen
Joseph: You present such star power. Where does your motivation come from?
Drake: My motivation comes from watching other theatre performers—the confidence they bring, the way they carry themselves. I try to do the same: carry myself with confidence and show that I know what I’m doing, even when I don’t always feel that way. I take inspiration from them but stay true to myself.
Joseph: What’s your favorite number to perform?
Drake: I would say Kaleidoscope. I really love the significance of that song—it’s the moment in the show where Ali finds what she’s been searching for. It’s uplifting, inspiring, and one of my favorite parts to perform.
Joseph: How do you prepare for such an emotionally and physically challenging role?
Drake: For me, it’s about really understanding the context of the show. Learning the story and the plot helps me connect to why Ali feels the way she feels. Once I understand that, it becomes easier to embody her emotionally and physically.
Joseph: What has surprised you most about working on Hell’s Kitchen?
Drake: Honestly, the impact it has on people. Some audiences may think the show isn’t for them—they might not be familiar with New York or with Alicia Keys’ music. But I’ve seen that everyone finds something to connect to. There’s a moment for everybody, no matter where you are in life.
Joseph: What makes this production unique?
Drake: Alicia Keys’ involvement makes it so special. It’s loosely based on her life, and the show features many of her classics, but also new songs written specifically for Hell’s Kitchen. She’s a legend, and she’s so genuine and kind. Her personal touch is felt in every part of the production.
Joseph: How do you plan to bring New York to Chicago?
Drake: It’s about educating myself on the vibe, the background, and the spirit of the city in the ’90s. From the dancing and choreography to the costumes and staging, the energy is high-spirited and authentic. The moment you walk into the theater, you’ll feel that New York vibe.
Joseph: Tell us about your creative team. How have they helped shape your character?
Drake: Alicia Keys has been developing this show for 13 years. Alongside her, Kristoffer Diaz, who wrote the book, and Michael Greif, our director, have been incredible. Michael really helped me understand who Ali is—what she wants, what she’s striving for. The team gave me the foundation and guidance to bring her to life.
Joseph: Is there anything you’d like audiences to know that we haven’t covered?
Drake: I just want to say—you’re going to love it. Even if you think you can’t connect to the story, there’s something in this show for you. Whether it’s a song, a dance, or a moment in the story, everyone leaves with something meaningful.
Maya Drake is more than a star in the making—she’s a light filled with energy and passion. That brilliance will be on full display when Hell’s Kitchen takes the stage at the James M. Nederlander Theatre for its three-week run, November 11–30.
