Review: A Powerfully Nostalgic BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL at The Ohio Theatre

As soon as Julia Knitel took the stage at the grand piano and opened her mouth to sing, she channeled every nuance of the legendary Carole King. Based on the inspiring true story of treasured Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter Carole King, BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL certainly lives up to its title. This charming, swiftly-paced production continues performances at the Ohio Theatre through June 11.

Directed by Marc Bruni and featuring book by Douglas McGrath, BEAUTIFUL portrays King's remarkable rise to stardom with her husband Gerry Goffin, her relationship with fellow writers and best friends Cynthia Weil and Barry Mann, and her transformation to becoming one of the most successful and celebrated solo acts in popular music history.

BEAUTIFUL is not only classy and powerfully nostalgic, but also brings a fresh life to old standards that will keep you humming and smiling for hours. Although the narrative lacks any real conflict or danger, it is a wonderfully refreshing change of pace with its endearing charm and genuinely heartwarming story.

As Carole King, Julia Knitel is exceptional. Her unique, gorgeous voice, along with her stellar acting skills certainly channel Ms. King in every aspect. Through Knitel, we are drawn into the evolution of Carole King's life, from an aspiring but awkward teenager, to her rise with her husband as a songwriter, to her marriage struggles, and to her ultimate solo success. Knitel's versions of "So Far Away," "Will You Love Me Tomorrow" and "It's Too Late" are simply exquisite, and the audience can't help but offer "oohs" and "ahhs" at every first note.

As King's husband and lyricist Gerry Goffin, Liam Tobin is charismatic and provides warmth to his character, even at his most troubled times as a wandering husband. Together with Knitel, they reveal the highs and lows of the turbulent marriage between King and Goffin, until the eventual divorce, Goffin's nervous breakdown, and King's ultimate flight to solo stardom. Their relationship portrays a troubled beauty that gives way to brilliant songs such as "So Far Away" and "It's Too Late."

Erika Olson as Cynthia Weil and Ben Fankhauser as Barry Mann bring romance and impeccable comedic timing to keep the audience engaged and the pace swift. They add wit and levity to the show because of their overwhelming likability. The best friends have genuine chemistry and present a heartwarming and sweet "You've Got A Friend" right before King makes her move to California to launch her solo singing career.

The extraordinary musical performances come from not only the four incredible lead actors, but also the superb supporting cast, including James Clow who adds humor and heart as the music producer Don Kirshner, and the featured artists portraying The Shirelles, The Drifters, The Righteous Brothers, and more.

Under the brilliant direction of Marc Bruni, choreography by Josh Prince showcases the distinctive style of the 1960s, and scenic design by Derek McLane transitions seamlessly to keep the pace as fluid as King's songs. Peter Kaczorowski creates a concert-like atmosphere with his lighting design, and the dazzling orchestra under the direction of Susan Draus brings rousing sounds and depth to King's classic songs. Costume designer Alejo Vietti also adds to the historical context of the story with his exquisite designs.

Powerfully nostalgic, BEAUTIFUL is a deeply satisfying tribute to a true, natural talent. When Knitel sings "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman" near the end, she finds the grace within the pains of life and celebrates a personal freedom through her beautiful music.

The Columbus premiere of BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL plays at the Ohio Theatre through June 11. Tickets start at $39 and can be purchased at the CAPA Ticket Center (39 E. State St.), all Ticketmaster outlets, and online at www.ticketmaster.com. To purchase by phone, call (614) 469-0939 or (800) 745-3000. Orders for groups of 20 or more may be placed by calling (614) 719-6900.

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