Director Nikolai Foster is having a well-earned run of success between award winning Billy Elliot, and this production is just as glorious.
Beautiful tells the inspiring true story of Carole King’s remarkable rise to stardom, from being part of a hit song-writing team with her husband Gerry Goffin, to her relationship with fellow writers and best friends Cynthia Weil and Barry Mann, to becoming one of the most successful solo acts in popular music history.
Molly-Grace Cutler is an absolute powerhouse, portraying Carole with vocals she would undoubtedly be proud of. Commanding the audience from her opening note, Cutler brings a freshness to iconic decade old tunes and leaves you wishing you could relive each number. Tom Milner may not make a convincing student with those greys, but is convincing as neglectful husband Gerry Goffin, making for some incredible anguishing scenes.
Seren Sandham-Davies is fabulous as chic Cynthia (with an enviable mini dress collection, thanks to costume designer, Edd Lindley), her bright tones contrasting Cutler’s raspier voice beautifully and working brilliantly with Jos Slovick playing Barry,
Sid Sidwell’s musical arrangements are consistently remarkable throughout, allowing Cutler’s raw vocals to shine through before bringing in the rest of the multiskilled cast to reach each song’s full production potential.
Designed by Frankie Bradshaw, the show is primarily set in the studio of 1560 Broadway, gives the impression of behind-the-scenes intimacy in the best way.
While by no means an unknown artist, the show really does bring to light the incredible amount Carole King, along with Gerry Goffin, Cynthia Wells, and Barry Mann, contributed to the music industry. Such magnificent performances are bound to leave a similar impact on its audience. Amidst the surge of musicals about musicians this is not one to miss. Beautiful is at The Belgrade until 5th November. Purchase tickets here https://www.belgrade.co.uk/events/beautiful-the-carole-king-musical/
*****
Katie Reviews 