By: Yorg
Beautiful: The Carole King Musical intertwines a delightful narrative that takes its audience on a sentimental journey through the life and career of one of the music industry’s most iconic and significant figures. The production harmoniously combines the art of storytelling with the magic of music, offering a compelling depiction of Carole King’s remarkable evolution from a burgeoning songwriter to a chart-topping music legend.
The Sylvan Adams Theatre (Segal Centre) was transformed into the 1960s / 1970s vibrant New York City music scene. The musical brilliantly captures an era when hits like “You’ve Got a Friend,” “I Feel the Earth Move,” and “Will You Love Me Tomorrow” dominated the airwaves. The meticulous set design and period-accurate costumes transported spectators back in time.
“Beautiful: The Carole King Musical” is a co-production with the Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre. At its core, the production thrives on its extraordinary cast. The lead actress (Tess Benger) excels in both her vocal proficiency and acting and does justice to Carole King’s multifaceted character. Her performance seamlessly blends youthful innocence, burgeoning confidence, and eventual wisdom while flawlessly delivering King’s iconic songs. When these elements align, as they consistently do in this production, the result was truly awe-inspiring.
The supporting cast played a pivotal role in creating an unforgettable experience. They adeptly portray famous artists and song writing partners who collaborated with Carole King throughout her career, such as Gerry Goffin (Darren Martens), Cynthia Weil (Laura Olafson), and Barry Mann (Mike Melino). Don Kirshner is convincingly portrayed by Cory Wojcik. These actors infuse depth into the narrative, shedding light on the creative and personal dynamics that shaped the music of that era.
The script, thoughtfully crafted by Douglas McGrath, artfully weaves together Carole King’s personal and professional life, showcasing her triumphs and tribulations. It delves into her relationships, including her tumultuous marriage to Gerry Goffin, and her journey toward self-discovery and empowerment. The narrative is both touching and inspiring, resonating with anyone who has faced challenges while pursuing their dreams.
Undoubtedly, the production’s greatest strength lies in its music. Audiences are treated to a breathtaking selection of Carole King’s most beloved songs, performed with boundless energy and soul. The live orchestra breathes life into these classics, enabling the audience to feel the raw emotion and vitality that rendered these songs timeless. The combination of powerful vocals, unforgettable melodies, and a live orchestra crafts an indelible experience for anyone who loves well-crafted songs, but especially devotees of Carole King’s music.
In conclusion, “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical” stands as a captivating tribute to a musical icon. It adeptly conveys the enchantment of Carole King’s music and the depth of her personal journey. With a talented cast, a heartfelt script, and an exceptional soundtrack, this production is an essential experience for music enthusiasts, history aficionados, and anyone who values a compelling and inspiring narrative. It offers a delightful opportunity to journey back to the past while celebrating the enduring legacy of Carole King’s timeless songs.
“Beautiful” has been smashing records over at the Segal Centre for pre-sold tickets. The response from the audience has been so amazing that this past Monday, they dropped some fantastic news – they’re extending the show for another week, all the way until November 12th! I loved this awesome play, with my toe a tapping from beginning to end.
BAND
Keyboard 1 and Band Leader Floydd Ricketts
Keyboard 2 Chris Barillaro
Keyboard 3 Zoé Dupont-Foisy
Trumpet Christopher Keach
Reeds Matthew Souaid
Guitars Diego Rojas
Electric Bass & Upright Bass Ali Remondini
Drums Valérie Lacombe
CREATIVE TEAM
Book by Douglas McGrath
Words and Music by Gerry Goffin & Carole King | Barry Mann & Cynthia Weil
Music by Arrangement with Sony/ATV Music Publishing
Orchestrations, Vocal and Incidental Music Arrangements Steve Sidwell
Director Kelly Thornton
Choreographer Jaz Sealey
Musical Director Floydd Ricketts
Assistant Director Justin Stadnyk
Set Designer Gillian Gallow
Costume Designer Louise Bourret
Lighting Designer Hugh Conacher
Sound Designer Sylvin Sévigny
Assistant Sound Designer Evan Brown
Stage Manager Melanie St-Jacques
Assistant Stage Manager Zahra Larche
Apprentice Stage Manager Annalise Peterson-Perry
Production Assistants Saskia Avalon, Casey Ecker
For Reservations: segalcentre.org or 514-739-7944.
Segal Centre For Performing Arts
5170 Cote-Ste-Catherine Road
Montreal, QC H3W 1M7, Canada
METRO: CÔTE-STE-CATHERINE, SNOWDON BUS: 129, 51, 17
