Behind every record-breaking, chart-topping hit is a songwriter with poetical flair to spare. This jukebox musical pays homage to 60s icon Carole King, the multi-talented musician and composer of timeless classics from ‘The Loco-Motion’ to ‘(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman’.
‘Beautiful’ follows the musically-rich career of King (Molly-Grace Cutler) as she pursues a dream to enrich people’s lives with her original songs. As an autobiographical piece, Douglas McGrath’s book reveals how King’s life experiences are reflected in her far-reaching creations.
The story itself may be thin, but the versatile cast proves that there is no need to overembellish a straightforward narrative when it’s the soundtrack that takes centre stage. Carole’s pop tunes are interspersed with soul and soft rock, and ‘1650 Broadway Medley’ interweaves some of the biggest songs of the decade into a 2-minute throwback. With varied genres, each one is a swinging sensation for the ears.
As King, Molly-Grace Cutler reigns supreme. Her steadfast portrayal in the leading role radiates passion, complemented by a voice more than worthy of representing the most successful female songwriter in the history of pop. ‘Some Kind of Wonderful’ is one of Cutler’s many Act One highlights.
Jos Slovick and Seren Sandham-Davies play Carole’s rivals-turned-best-friends Barry and Cynthia respectively, proving themselves to be formidable musical heavyweights. The pair use their charismatic chemistry to make ‘On Broadway’ a scene-stealing triumph.
Every single performer is worthy of praise: the troupe doubles up as the on-stage band, demonstrating all-around vocal and instrumental prowess. On both piano and sax is Carole’s mother, Genie, played by Claire Greenway, who invigorates this role with infectious enthusiasm.
Choreography by Leah Hill is most noteworthy in The Drifters’ energetic dancing, particularly that of Jordan Louis-Fernand. A suitably minimal, plywood set from Frankie Bradshaw sees most of the action take place in a recording studio, with slight changes to demarcate scenes outside of it.
‘Beautiful’ is a feel-good show accessible to all, and the script’s undemanding humour further contributes to this. An awareness of Carole King’s music is far from required to enjoy it; this reviewer had only heard of ‘Jazz Man’ before- a song that doesn’t even feature.
Simply sublime!
‘Beautiful’ continues at Palace Theatre, Manchester until 15th October with tickets available from https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/beautiful/palace-theatre-manchester/
Reviewer: Scot Cunningham
Reviewed: 11th October 2022
North West End UK Rating: ★★★★★