Review: BEAUTIFUL: The Carole King Musical at Oklahoma City's Civic Center Music Hall

Jess here. After finally settling down in my new home of Oklahoma City, I had the great opportunity to experience "Beautiful: The Carole King Musical" for the second time in my life. Presented by the Civic Center Music Hall, this tale of King's early career is always a fan favorite.

"Beautiful" follows the life of world renowned singer/songwriter Carole King, reflecting on the many ups and downs of her life in love, and in the world of music. The story opens with Carole at age 16, when she successfully sells her song "It Might as Well Rain Until September" to a publishing house. The story follows King through several of her major life events with associated points of conflict and inspiration being keenly reflected in her song lyrics, ranging from her unsuccessful marriage; "One Fine Day" to her move to California; "It's Too Late" to a pinnacle point in her career - her concert at Carnegie Hall, where she brings the house down with a showstopping performance of the song that inspired the musical's title: "Beautiful." The production also pays homage to the vocalists and groups who performed many of King's biggest hits from the 60's and 70's, including The Drifters and The Shirelles.

Sarah Bockel portrayed Carole King famously. She not only perfectly emulated King's personality and passion, but her vocal style was spot on as well. Andrew Brewer played the role of Gerry Goffin. His voice was hypnotizing, all thanks to his incredible range and beautiful tone. The chemistry between him and Bockel was heartwrenchingly real. I also really enjoyed the performance by Sarah Goeke. Her fluttery Cynthia Weil was the perfect companion for Jacob Heimer's paranoid portrayal of Barry Mann. Additionally, James Clow's enactment of Don Kirshner was fantastic, and provided an inside look at the personality requirements associated with those involved in the business of music production. Clow's Kirshner was witty and dry, and provided a nice contrast to the show's coupled pairings. The reality based interactions of the characters as a group included many comedic scenarios, as well as moments of pure honesty that the audience could definitely relate to.

The set was simple, yet incredible. Derek McLane used hundreds of file cabinets to create an eye-catching background, and also implemented vintage furniture to complete the 70's aesthetic. The costumes were also perfect. Their "true to time" look was well executed by Alejo Vietti. Finally, the choreography by Josh Prince was impressive and fun. He staged all of the popular dances of the time to a T. Their synchronicity and familiarity was entertaining to the audience, and reinforced the time era associated with the plot.

The director, Marc Bruni, knew exactly what he was doing when he put this show together. The casting, music, costumes, set, and everything in between worked in perfect harmony to create both a hilarious and heartbreaking musical. King's story, along with her timeless music and a highly entertaining ensemble will definitely leave you inspired. This musical was, quite honestly, one of the best productions I've ever seen. I'm so glad to have been able to be a member of the audience once again. I would highly recommend this show to anyone who has a love for great music, and a truly beautiful story.

"That's the sound of a hit! It's a hit! Gang, I think this is it!" -Stephen Sondheim