A Joyous Celebration: Beautiful: The Carole King Musical at Asolo Repertory Theatre
The Asolo Repertory Theatre has once again proven itself a beacon of artistic excellence with its stunning production of Beautiful: The Carole King Musical. This show, a heartfelt tribute to one of the most iconic singer-songwriters of all time, is a must-see. With exceptional music, powerful vocals, and captivating performances, this production not only entertains but also touches the soul.
A Journey Through Carole King’s Legendary Career
Beautiful tells the story of Carole King’s rise to stardom, from her beginnings as a shy teenager in Brooklyn to her emergence as one of the most celebrated artists of her generation. The narrative unfolds with warmth and authenticity, chronicling her collaborations with lyricist Gerry Goffin, her friendships with songwriting rivals Cynthia Weil and Barry Mann, and the eventual creation of Tapestry, the groundbreaking album that cemented her status as a music legend.
This story is more than just a biography; it’s a celebration of resilience, self-discovery, and the power of music to transform lives. Asolo Repertory Theatre’s production captures the essence of King’s journey with an intimacy that draws audiences in from the very first note.
Exceptional Cast and Vocals
The cast of Beautiful at Asolo Rep deserves high praise for their exceptional performances. The actor portraying Carole King is nothing short of mesmerizing, embodying the star’s quiet strength and vulnerability. Her voice is a perfect match for King’s, capturing the soulful emotion that made songs like “It’s Too Late” and “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman” timeless classics.
The chemistry between Carole and Gerry Goffin, played with great nuance and depth, adds a poignant layer to the story. The audience witnesses the highs of their creative partnership and the struggles of their personal relationship, all brought to life with authenticity and heart.
The supporting cast, including the dynamic duo of Cynthia Weil and Barry Mann, provide plenty of humor and charm. Their witty banter and incredible vocal performances in songs like “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feeling” and “Walking in the Rain” are standout moments that bring levity and energy to the production.
A Musical Masterpiece
Of course, the music is the true star of Beautiful. The production features a treasure trove of hits from Carole King’s songwriting catalog, as well as other chart-toppers of the era. Songs like “Take Good Care of My Baby,” “One Fine Day,” and “Will You Love Me Tomorrow” are seamlessly woven into the narrative, each number advancing the story while delivering pure musical joy.
The live band provides a rich, authentic sound that complements the stellar vocals of the cast. The arrangements are faithful to the originals yet infused with a freshness that makes the music feel alive and immediate.
The ensemble also deserves recognition for their electrifying performances as 1960s pop groups like The Shirelles, The Drifters, and The Righteous Brothers. These numbers are brimming with energy, complete with dazzling choreography and period-perfect costumes that transport the audience back to the golden age of rock ‘n’ roll.
The songs include; So Far Away, Some Kind of Wonderful, On Broadway, Locomotion, You’ve Lost That Lovin Feeling, One Fine Day, It’s Too Late, You’ve Got A Friend, You Make Me Feel Like a Natural Woman, I Feel The Earth Move and more!
Stunning Production Design
The production design of Beautiful at Asolo Rep is another highlight. The set transitions seamlessly from a Brooklyn living room to the vibrant recording studios of the Brill Building and, eventually, to the grandeur of Carnegie Hall. Each scene is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, creating an immersive experience that brings the world of Carole King to life.
Lighting plays a key role in setting the mood, whether it’s the warm glow of a songwriting session or the dramatic spotlight of a live performance. The costumes are equally impressive, capturing the evolving styles of the 1960s and 1970s while reflecting the characters’ personal growth.
Emotional Resonance
What sets Beautiful apart from other jukebox musicals is its emotional resonance. The story isn’t just a collection of hits; it’s a deeply personal journey of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery. The audience feels Carole’s triumphs and struggles as if they were their own, thanks to the raw honesty of the performances and the universal themes of the story.
By the time the show reaches its climax with Carole King’s performance of “Beautiful,” it’s impossible not to be moved. The song, a declaration of self-worth and empowerment, serves as the perfect conclusion to a story that celebrates the enduring power of music and the human spirit.
A Must-See Production
Asolo Repertory Theatre’s Beautiful: The Carole King Musical is an unforgettable theatrical experience. From its exceptional cast and pitch-perfect vocals to its stunning production design and emotional storytelling, this show hits all the right notes. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Carole King or discovering her music for the first time, this production is sure to leave you feeling inspired and uplifted.
The timeless message of Beautiful—that we all have the strength to create our own destiny—is one that resonates deeply, especially when delivered through the music and story of an artist as beloved as Carole King. For those lucky enough to see this exceptional show at Asolo Rep, it’s a night of theater that will be cherished for years to come.
Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic of Beautiful: The Carole King Musical. This is more than a show—it’s a celebration of a legend and a reminder of the beauty we all carry within us.
