“Beautiful – The Carole King Musical”
Nottingham Theatre Royal

“Beautiful” is the story of Carole King’s journey from schoolgirl to singing/song writing superstar who has penned so many recognisable hits, not just for herself but for many other well-known names of the 1960’s and 1970’s. It covers her relationship with husband and song-writing partner, Gerry Goffin, through to the playful rivalry of fellow signwriting duo Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil and her own chart career in the early 1970’s.

Songs like “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow”, “Take Good Care Of My Baby”, “The Locomotion”, “Pleasant Valley Sunday”, “Up On The Roof”, “One Fine Day”, “You Make Me feel Like A Natural Woman” were all big hits for other artists, and some people may not have realised that these are all from the pen of Carole King.

Her album “Tapestry” was number one in the American charts for 15 consecutive weeks, and stayed in the charts for nearly six years. She also collected four Grammy Awards for the album.

We first meet King, born Carole Klein, when she is 16 years old and on the verge of selling her first song, "It Might As Well Rain Until September" to Don Kirshner played by Adam Howden. We then get the full journey all the way through to her 1971 performance at Carnegie Hall

Leigh Lothian plays King and doesn’t deliver an impression of King, more of an interpretation of King’s work. It’s heartfelt and simple. There was nothing flashy or vocally

acrobatic from King and that is reflected in Leigh’s performance. That heartfelt simplicity and honesty could be the reason why King’s music is played on radio stations today with her songs performed with a real love and respect for King’s lyrics.

Kane Oliver Parry plays Gerry Goffin, who wants his cake and eat it with a string of women he flits to and from, while still wanting to be a husband and father.

Playing Cynthia Weil is Emma Lucia, in a last minute replacement, so last minute there was a slight hold up during the play. You have to admire any actor who, while knowing that they are understudying another actor, is thrown in right at the last minute. Emma could have been the main actor playing Weil, we wouldn't have known had that break not have occurred.

Barry Mann is played by Matthew Gonsalves, who shows what a voice he has in the second act as he sings "We Gotta Get Out Of This Place". His voice comes as no real surprise as he is a vocal arranger doe artists such as Westlife, Florence & the Machine and Barry Manilow among other well known names.

Adding a lot of the comedy is King's mother, Genie, played by Carol Royle. And there's many lovely one liners throughout this wonderful musical.

A very talented ensemble who double as the groups and singers like The Drifters, Neil Sedaka, The Chiffons, Righteous Brothers and The Shirelles, bringing back memories (for some of the older viewers) of the wonderfully entertaining choreography (Josh Prince) of the era.

Directed by Marc Bruni, the sets and the show is polished and stylish with some nifty, albeit slightly clunky scene changes.

Talking of style, the costumes and wigs for "Beautiful" were very stylish. it was a rare thing for an artist of group in the early 60's not to be seen on TV or stage without a suit or flowing dress, and these costumes reflected that perfectly.

My only fly in the ointment would be the occasional noise coming from the wings which at times were a distraction in the quieter moments of the play.

Musical Director is Patrick Hurley who recreates the magical zing of the era.

There are several emotive sections in this musical, especially when listening to "You've Got A Friend" and when she sings "Natural Woman" and they can really get to anyone with a heart.

A very well deserved standing ovation as Leigh took her final bows, which lead on to a brilliant version of "I Feel The Earth Move". So many great songs in one show, ensuring you go home with your head and heart full of musical loveliness.

“Beautiful” is at the Nottingham Theatre Royal until Saturday 21 October 2017