"Beautiful" at Aurora Theatre: Carole King's Legacy

Bethany Irby is magnificent portraying Carole King.Photo byAurora Theatre

Carole King's contribution to the evolution of American popular music is monumental. Throughout her career, she has written timeless songs and showcased her incredible talent as a singer-songwriter.

In the 1960s, Carole King emerged as a prolific songwriter, penning hits for various artists. Her compositions, such as "Will You Love Me Tomorrow" for The Shirelles and "The Loco-Motion" for Little Eva, not only became chart-toppers but also helped shape the sound of the era.

However, it was her 1971 album "Tapestry" that solidified her place as an influential figure in American popular music. The album, featuring hits like "It's Too Late" and "You've Got a Friend," captured the essence of the singer-songwriter movement and resonated with audiences worldwide. "Tapestry" went on to become one of the best-selling albums of all time, winning multiple Grammy Awards.

Carole King's music continues to be celebrated for its heartfelt lyrics, soulful melodies, and relatable themes. Her influence on subsequent generations of artists is undeniable, as her songs have been covered by countless musicians over the years.

"Beautiful: The Carole King Musical" celebrates the popular music of the 1960’s and early 70’s. Lawrenceville's magnificent Aurora Theatre has been packed for every performance, a testament to the quality of production and on-stage talent.

The musical takes viewers on a journey through the life and career of iconic singer-songwriter Carole King as portrayed by the gifted Bethany Irby. Her flawless performance, backed by the talented cast brings Ms. King’s story to life, from her humble beginnings as a Brooklyn teenager to her meteoric rise to stardom. The show, better descibed as a musical, is a seamless blend of King's iconic hits, including popular standards like "You've Got a Friend" and "Natural Woman.”

“Beautiful” is a show for those who love or lived through the music of the 1960s and early 70s. It is a celebration of the sounds and culture of a golden age. Hit after hit are brought to life by gifed singers from a sizeable ensemble. Many are tracks that became hugely successful for other artists including The Righteous Brothers, The Drifters and The Shirelles.

Pat Sabatelle, a retired Atlanta public relations executive and a highly-respected supporter of the arts enjoyed “Beautiful” commenting that, “[a]s I looked around the audience many people were mouthing every song and keeping beat with music in their seats. It made me want to get up and dance when songs like ‘The Locomotion’ and ‘Who Put the Bop’ were sung,” adding that “Carole King's music continues to be celebrated for its heartfelt lyrics, soulful melodies, and relatable themes.”

“Beautiful” is not only enormously entertaining, it is a real theatrical event. According to Ms. Sabatelle, “this production is flawless and doesn’t miss a note. The cast and musicians were spectacular. This show is Broadway quality.”

Carole King's songs, her songwriting prowess and emotional depth have earned her a well-deserved place in music history. The Aurora Theatre provides the perfect setting for this unforgettable experience. With its intimate atmosphere, every seat feels close to the action, allowing the audience to fully immerse themselves in the magic of the production.

auroratheatre.com