Cessy Newmon
BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL focuses on thirteen (1958-1971) years in a longer career, and it showcases not only Carole the singer/songwriter, but her first major writing partner, a second writing duo who were competitors and friends, as well as some of the numerous artists that actually recorded their varied songs. The main focus, though, is Ms. King, who has had 118 songs in the top 100. She has collaborated with artists spanning the genres. Many of her songs have become standards, such as “Where You Lead”, which she recorded for the series Gilmore Girls.
Born Carole Joan Klein, she began playing the piano at age three. She was already writing songs in high school and changed her name to Carole King (played by Rachel Ann Kocher) when she was making demo records with another unknown named Paul Simon. This musical picks up when King starts college, sells her first solo song to Don Kirshner (Michael Roddy) and starts collaborating with Gerry Goffin (Ethan Davenport). King becomes pregnant at 17, and she and Goffin marry. They both drop out of college and take day jobs until they start becoming successful with their music. Their relationship was always somewhat rocky. Goffin was diagnosed as bipolar, and he also cheated on Carole. They divorced after 9 years.
Also working for Kirschner are Barry Mann (Matthew Fecko) and Cynthia Weil (Logan Cheatham), who are portrayed in the musical as both King and Goffin’s best friends, as well as the rivals that drive each other to succeed. BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL is written by Douglas McGrath, but all of the music comes from these four musicians.
Ms. Kocher has the challenge of portraying Carole from 16-year-old college student through her transition as a behind-the-scenes writer to a successful performing singer-songwriter. She does this with poise and grace, and a voice very reminiscent of Ms. King. Mr. Davenport has to navigate the unstable moodswings and the guilt of betraying Carole with other women. These two partner extremely well, as do the supporting Ms. Weil and Mr. Fecko. The four work and sound wonderful together.
The overall cast was much larger than expected, with most of the ensemble covering several roles through the show. Because multiple soloists and groups were presented, costumes and wigs must have been flying backstage. The set was simple, but effective.
BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL runs about 2.5 hours at the Alhambra Theatre, 12000 Beach Blvd., April 3rd-May 11th, 2025. Ticket and season ticket prices vary based on show and seating. For reservations and information, go to alhambrajax.com or call (904) 641-1212.
Cessy Newmon
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