As a seasoned gamer who has spent countless hours immersed in the world of virtual Broadway, I find myself deeply moved by Kecia Lewis’ passionate plea for understanding and collaboration. Having spent years navigating the complexities of multiplayer gaming environments, I can attest to the power of constructive communication and mutual respect in fostering a vibrant, inclusive community.
On Saturday, the star of Hell’s Kitchen, Kecia Lewis, asked for an apology from Patti LuPone, a renowned figure in Broadway, who criticized the show as being too noisy and suggested modifications to its audio cues.
In a quick clip I shared online, I labeled LuPone’s behavior as “offensive,” “subtly racist,” “rude,” and “emanating from privilege.” As a gamer, I couldn’t help but speak up about it.
Lewis clarified that her statement was “mine alone, not from the cast, crew, or producers of Hell’s Kitchen. I am expressing my thoughts as Keisha Lewis.” She detailed some conversations between LuPone and the theater connected to Hell’s Kitchen – where she received a Tony this year – in which LuPone requested adjustments to several sound cues because they were “too loud,” according to her own words.
Currently, LuPone’s production of “The Roommate” is being staged at the Shubert Theatre. Interestingly, this theater shares a wall with the Booth Theatre, where the play “Hell’s Kitchen” is being performed.
Following the fine-tuning of our sound design, you graciously sent flowers to our sound and stage team as a token of appreciation, Lewis noted. Additionally, she shared a clip where LuPone declined to sign a ‘Hell’s Kitchen’ playbill, stating that the show is too noisy.
Lewis shared some insights on microaggressions. Essentially, they’re subtle, unintentional remarks or actions that express stereotypes, prejudices, or negative presumptions about someone based on their ethnicity. Although they might appear insignificant or minor, these instances can build up and cause considerable stress or discomfort for the person involved. For instance, labeling a Black show as ‘loud’ in a dismissive way could be considered a microaggression.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Kecia Lewis (@therealkecialewis)
She went on to explain, “In our profession, language carries significant influence over perceptions, sometimes in ways we don’t initially grasp. Labeling a predominantly Black Broadway show as boisterous could unintentionally reinforce detrimental stereotypes and also comes off as disregarding the talent and expressions being showcased on stage. Statements such as these can be perceived as racial microaggressions, which indeed have a tangible effect on both performers and spectators. Actions like sending thank-you bouquets might seem polite, but they were dismissive and out of touch, particularly after a complaint you made led to changes that significantly affected our entire production, primarily the individuals who are required to go on stage and perform.
She went on to request collaboration between the two shows, which would mean “direct communication, respect for the work being done, and awareness of how actions resonate across diverse teams.”
Without the teamwork, Lewis stated that LuPone’s behavior was bullying. She explained that “bullying in a professional setting can entail wielding power to disturb through the use of one’s position or connections to instigate unnecessary modifications to someone else’s work environment, such as demanding audio alterations.
She clarified that “acts of politeness can sometimes be a form of bullying too. To put it simply, when someone sends gratitude gifts like flowers following a negative event that affected the work, but avoids having genuine conversations or resolving issues, it might come off as insincere.
Lewis posed a few considerate questions aimed at veterans like you and himself. First, he asked how we can express our feedback or concerns in a manner that is not only constructive but also deeply respectful. Second, he wanted to know how we could leverage our platform and knowledge to boost diverse show teams on Broadway, emphasizing the value each production brings uniquely.
Lewis explained that addressing these questions could assist veterans like you and me by allowing us to showcase our impact within the Broadway community in a constructive manner, fostering an environment of respect, empathy, and inclusivity. Furthermore, he emphasized that on Broadway, we aren’t merely neighbors, Ms. Capone; instead, we form a tight-knit community where we support each other’s artistic endeavors and face shared challenges. Respect and collaboration are the cornerstones that sustain our growth and inspire future generations.
The Hollywood Reporter reached out to Patti LuPone for comment on Lewis’ open letter.
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2024-11-04 01:24