Taking on the life story and songbook of two-time Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee Carole King is no easy task – but this Altrincham Garrick Playhouse production, fronted by the incomparable Madeleine Healey, is a sure-fire hit. With high-production value, a top-tier company and imaginative staging, this feel-good jukebox musical is truly Some Kind of Wonderful.
Director Joseph Meighan seamlessly moves through the nearly thirty musical numbers with simplicity and pace, whilst still managing to craft the emotional story beats between the numbers. Stage management ensures the scenes transition efficiently, as set pieces and decoration create the various environments for this biographical story. The live camera work during One Fine Day tapped into the Jamie Lloyd’s Andrew Lloyd Webber revivals and feels innovative in a smaller, local venue.
Trevor McKie’s imaginative set transitions through the years of Carole’s career and transports the audience to the centre of the New York music industry. Combined with James Merrington’s impressive lighting, the musical recreates the iconic look and feel of the 60s and 70s – particularly shining during the many numbers celebrating artists of the era, such as The Drifters and Little Eva.
It is hard to imagine anyone who could embody Carole King better than Madeleine, who excels in both her acting and vocal ability. Her performance captivates the room and never ventures into the pitfalls of becoming a tribute act. Madeleine’s character work is most notable as you compare Carole through the different stages of her life – resulting in a big payoff as the show concludes as King’s solo career blossomed. Her voice was note perfect throughout all of her many numbers, with the audience responding strongly to both mega hits (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman and the titular song Beautiful. Her portrayal is emphasised by the impressive costumes and wigs from Mike Shaw and team, authentically creating the iconic style of Carole and the accompanying characters of her story.
The supporting cast all shine, showcasing how strong of an ensemble the show boasts. Ronan Pilkington portrays Carole’s husband and song-writing partner Gerry Goffin with poise and confidence; he can handle the complex nature of the character and the rollercoaster of emotions Gerry traverses throughout the show. Both Rachel Jacquest and Aidan Burgess excel as song-writing duo Cynthia Weil and Barry Mann respectively, they had fantastic chemistry and handle the comedic delivery of their parts with ease.
Overall, this production of Beautiful: The Carole King Musical is a masterclass in the power of local theatre, taking the audience from this theatre in Altrincham to the heights of Carnegie Hall. Despite the small venue size, this production and stellar cast and creative team create a production that feels joyous, uplifting and fit for the living-legend that is Carole King.
Playing until Sunday 29th June with limited availability at some performances, https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/booking?webEventId=beaut
Reviewer: Harry Alty
Reviewed: 23rd June 2025
North West End UK Rating: