"Beautiful: The Carole King Musical," now gracing the stage at the Liverpool Empire, is a tribute to the iconic singer-songwriter whose music has shaped pop and rock history. This jukebox musical takes audiences on a journey through Carole King’s remarkable career, from her early days as a budding songwriter in Brooklyn to her rise as a solo artist with a string of timeless hits. The show cleverly interweaves her personal struggles and triumphs with the rich tapestry of songs she penned, providing a nostalgic and heartfelt experience for fans old and new.
The narrative of "Beautiful" unfolds with Carole King reflecting on her life during a pivotal Carnegie Hall performance. The show then flashes back to her teenage years, detailing her initial songwriting successes and her partnership with Gerry Goffin. The story delves into their creative synergy, their eventual personal and professional struggles, and the competitive yet friendly rivalry with fellow songwriters Cynthia Weil and Barry Mann. As the plot progresses, the musical balances the highs of their chart-topping successes with the personal and relational strains that inevitably followed.
The set design by Frankie Bradshaw is both innovative and functional. It primarily features a dynamic recording studio environment that transforms effortlessly into various settings such as homes and stages. This design choice not only reflects the musical's theme but also keeps the production visually engaging. The live band, integrated into the stage setup, adds authenticity and energy to the performance, blending seamlessly with the actors who also double as musicians.
The Costumes, true to the era, effectively capture the spirit of the 60s and 70s, enhancing the immersion into Carole King’s world.
The cast delivers a standout performance, with Molly Grace Cutler’s portrayal of Carole King being a highlight. Her vocal prowess and emotional depth bring King’s character to life with authenticity. Tom Milner as Gerry Goffin and Seren Sandham Davies as Cynthia Weil also shine, each bringing nuance to their roles. Jos Slovick’s Barry Mann and Garry Robson’s Don Kirshner add depth and charm to the story, contributing significantly to the show's engaging ensemble.
"Beautiful: The Carole King Musical" at the Liverpool Empire is a captivating and enjoyable production. While the narrative could delve deeper into Carole King’s personal life and the emotional subtleties of her relationships, the show excels in its musical execution and vibrant portrayal of King’s journey. The inventive set design and talented cast, particularly Cutler’s exceptional performance, make this musical a rewarding experience. For fans of Carole King’s music and those new to her story, this production offers a memorable and uplifting night at the theatre.
Beautiful: The Carole King Musical is at the Liverpool Empire until Saturday 19th November 2022, you can purchase tickets by clicking on the button below.
If you would like more information about the show including where it will be touring, click the button below for the show's official website.
Photo Credit - Ellie Kurttz
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