The Bushnell, Hartford, CT
through January 22, 2017
by R.E. Smith
One need not fear that “Beautiful-The Carole King Musical”
is simply another “jukebox review” of well known songs loosely strung together
with a “theme.” Rather, it is the fascinating story of songwriter/singer Carole
King’s life and career (actually, a fairly straightforward tale of love and
friendship) staged so well, and so spectacularly, that it practically knocks
the audience’s socks off.
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| Julia Knitel |
Julia Knitel as King is absolutely outstanding. Her energy,
delivery, and genuineness of spirit fills the stage even when 16-year-old King
is just starting to find her voice. The audience is instantly hers, aided by a
spot-on dialect, remarkable piano skills, and powerhouse singing voice. Playing
a living icon does not diminish her ability to deliver a genuine, multi-faceted
character.
Baby boomers that grew up listening to King’s 1971 Grammy
winning “Tapestry” album will undoubtedly be moved with nostalgia. But the
sheer volume of popular music that she and her husband, Gerry Goffin (Liam
Tobin), created together will floor those not so familiar with the artist.
Perhaps it would be best not to read the list of songs so that the revelation
of the hits is even more amazing. Rather than just recreating the songs
verbatim, the book gives us insight in to how they were developed and shaped.
Douglas McGrath’s script crackles with heartfelt New York
energy and speed, with lines both humorous and insightful. The story is
generous in crediting another songwriting team, Cynthia Weil and Berry Mann as
playing an important role in King’s life and career. As both friends and
friendly rivals, Erika Olson and Ben Frankhauser quickly become audience
favorites and a vital compliment to King and Goffin. The addition of their work
in the famous Brill Building brings still more hits to the stellar line-up.
Indeed, the show is generous on every level, with all members of the ensemble
given a chance to shine.
The choreography of Josh Prince embraces and enhances the
styles of the 60’s, delivering an unbridled exuberance to the proceedings and
smile to the face. Coupled with the gorgeous costume design and simple, but
dazzling, scenery, the show is worth seeing for the visual touches alone.
All the elements in “Beautiful,” from performances, to
songs, to the dancing are executed flawlessly, making it deserving of all the
“gorgeous”, “dazzling”, “lovely”, “magnificent” synonyms that one can list.
