In one of many captivating moments of “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical” at Theater By The Sea, we found ourselves immersed in the creative process as Carole King and her husband sat at the piano, pouring their hearts into crafting the melody and lyrics for “Up On the Roof.” Then, as if the veil between imagination and reality lifted, four remarkably talented performers appeared, embodying the spirit, style, and choreography of the legendary Drifters.
With impeccable precision and soulful renditions, they recreated the magic of the song, their voices blending, filling the theater with nostalgic melodies that have touched the hearts of generations. It was a moment of transcendence, one of many throughout the play, where the creative process seamlessly intertwined with the artistry of the performers, leaving us awestruck and deeply moved.
My wife knew of Carole King’s songs as a singer. a fan of her empowering messages as well as the artistry of the songs themselves, including So Far Away, Natural Woman, I feel the Earth Move, and You’ve Got A Friend. She has a copy of her top-selling album Tapestry, cherished despite the fact that we no longer have a turntable to play vinyl records.
Carole King’s music held a deeply personal significance for my wife, and many people of the era. But while my wife had been a long-time admirer of Carole King as a singer, drawn to the empowering messages and the artistry of songs, I have a personal quirk where I rarely connect a performer their songs. I hadn’t even realized that those iconic songs were all crafted by the very same person. But an even larger realization hit both of us, taking us both by surprise — by delving deeper into Carole King’s musical journey through this performance, we discovered the sheer magnitude of her songwriting prowess. From enchanting compositions like “Some Kind of Wonderful,” “Will You Love Me Tomorrow,” “Chains,” and the infectious “Loco motion” to a staggering repertoire of over 100 other Billboard hits, Carole King’s creative genius and impact on the music industry left us in awe of her extraordinary talent.
As “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical” unfolded before our eyes at Theater By The Sea, it became apparent that the production not only celebrated Carole King’s musical achievements but also offered a profound glimpse into her personal journey. The narrative took us on a captivating ride through the ups and downs of her life, revealing the resilience and determination that propelled her from a young and ambitious songwriter to a revered icon in the music industry.
The play artfully depicted Carole King’s early years, showcasing her innate talent and unwavering passion for music. We witnessed Carole King (per-formed by Monet Sabel) and her collaborative partnership with her husband, Gerry Goffin (performed by Timm Quartier), as they navigated the dynamic world of the Brill Building, where some of the greatest hits of the era were crafted. The challenges they faced both personally and professionally, the triumphs and setbacks, all contributed to the narrative tapestry of the musical.
The musical’s narrative arc took us on a transformative journey, witnessing Carole King’s evolution from a young woman grappling with self-doubt and adversity to a confident and empowered artist who found her own voice. This personal transformation, beautifully depicted on stage, mirrored the transformative power of Carole King’s music itself. Her songs became anthems of self-discovery, resilience, and the pursuit of one’s dreams, resonating deeply with audiences around the world.
It would be a mistake to think that “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical” is simply a biographical portrayal of Carole King’s life. In truth, it served as a captivating exploration of the art of songwriting during a transformative era spanning the do-wop of the 1950s to the 1970s pop rock often showcased by the Monkees. The musical offered a glimpse into the evolving landscape of popular music, reflecting the changing times and the voices that shaped the industry alongside Carole King. It showcased the contributions of other key figures of the era, such as Gerry Goffin who struggled with mental health issues, and best friends and friendly rival couple Cynthia Weil and Barry Mann, all of whom were instrumental in defining the sound and spirit of the time.
By exploring the lives and collaborations of key figures like Gerry Goffin, Cynthia Weil (Alaina Mills), and Barry Mann (Andrew Poston), “Beautiful” showcased the interconnectedness of the songwriting community and the enduring impact of their collective work. It emphasized the power of collaboration, innovation, and the ability of music to transcend boundaries and resonate with audiences on a universal level.
During this period, popular music underwent a remarkable transformation, transitioning from the simpler melodies and romantic themes of the 1950s to the more introspective and socially conscious songs of the 1960s and 1970s. The musical beautifully captured this evolution, highlighting the impact of artists like The Drifters, The Shirelles, The Righteous Brothers, and Aretha Franklin, among others.
The Brill Building, where Carole King and her contemporaries worked, served as a creative hub that birthed countless hits and showcased the collaborative nature of the songwriting process. The musical underscored the collective effort and cross-pollination of ideas that occurred within this vibrant community of songwriters, where creativity and competition thrived side by side.
As always, we eagerly anticipated the performance of “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical” at Theater By The Sea, where the extraordinary talents of the cast and crew would bring this captivating story to life on stage. TBTS holds a rich history as one of Rhode Island’s most beloved cultural institutions. Nestled in the picturesque seaside town of Matunuck, this enchanting theater has been entertaining audiences since its establishment in 1933. Originally built as a barn, TBTS underwent a transformation in 1967 to become a professional summer theater, and it has been captivating theater enthusiasts ever since.
The venue itself exudes a unique charm, combining the rustic elegance of its origins with modern amenities. Set against the backdrop of serene coastal landscapes, the theater’s intimate setting creates an immersive experience for attendees. With its picturesque outdoor courtyard, adorned with lush greenery and vibrant flowers, theatergoers can enjoy pre-show gatherings or post-performance conversations in a truly enchanting atmosphere.
Inside the theater, the audience is greeted by a warm and inviting space. The seating arrangement ensures an intimate connection between performers and spectators, allowing for an immersive theatrical experience. The acoustics are carefully designed to deliver pristine sound quality, enhancing the magic of the performances. From the cozy seating to the detailed stage design, TBTS creates an ambiance that invites audiences to become fully immersed in the world of the production.
The diverse repertoire of shows at TBTS is a testament to its commitment to providing a varied and captivating theater experience. Known for its summer season, the theater hosts a range of productions, including Broadway musicals, classic plays, and contemporary works. Audiences can delight in the enchantment of beloved musicals, experience the drama and intensity of thought-provoking plays, or immerse themselves in the world of vibrant dance performances. With a lineup that caters to diverse tastes and interests, TBTS has established itself as a cultural hub, fostering a deep appreciation for the performing arts.
Over the years, Theater By The Sea has gained a reputation for its exceptional productions and commitment to artistic excellence. Its stage has been graced by the talents of renowned performers and emerging stars alike, all contributing to the theater’s vibrant legacy. With its rich history, stunning setting, and a dedication to delivering outstanding theatrical experiences, TBTS continues to be a cherished destination for theater lovers seeking unforgettable performances in the heart of Rhode Island’s scenic coastal beauty.
Attending a play at Theater By The Sea is an experience that should not be missed for any avid theater enthusiast. While the limited run of specific productions means that your chance of catching “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical” may have already passed, but fear not, TBTS consistently delivers exceptional shows throughout the summer that are sure to captivate and entertain. To plan a visit, it is advisable to regularly check the theater’s website or sign up for their newsletter to stay informed about upcoming productions and ticket availability. When a show catches your interest, it’s best to book your tickets in advance to secure your preferred seating. Whether it’s a beloved Broadway musical, a thought-provoking play, or a dazzling dance performance, Theater By The Sea has a reputation for consistently delivering high-quality productions that leave audiences in awe. So, while “Beautiful” may depart on July 8, rest assured that every show at TBTS promises to be an unforgettable experience, ensuring that you’ll leave the theater with cherished memories and a newfound appreciation for the performing arts.
When you go, catch a meal before or after the play at the on-site restaurant Bravo by the Sea. Or relax in the gardens and stroll under the arbor like we did as we reflected on the magical world of “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical” at Theater By The Sea. As we explored the gardens, we realized that we had discovered a profound truth: the music we have cherished throughout the years would never have come to be without the remarkable talent and indomitable spirit of Carole King and the other creators in the musical.
Paul not only writes many of the articles in the pages of this magazine, he is also the publisher and editor of all of the magazines in the Amygis Publishing’s family of travel magazines. He loves exploring, traveling the back roads, experiencing the world, and finding what is unique and memorable about the places he visits.
And he loves writing – poetry, short stories, essays, non-fiction, news, and. of course, travel writing.
For over 20 years, he has shared his explorations with readers in a wide variety of outlets, from groundbreaking forays into the first stirrings of the dot-com boom to travel guides, local newspapers, and television, including Runner’s World, Travel Lady, Providence Journal, and Northstar Travel Media. He currently publishes and writes for Amygis Publishing’s magazines Jaunting, Northeast Traveler, and Rhode Island Roads.
