The Inspiring True Story of Carole King’s Journey from Teenage Songwriter to Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
By Anne Reid
Step into the world of “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical,” a biographical jukebox production that tells the captivating story of one of the most iconic singer-songwriters in history. With heartfelt storytelling and a soundtrack filled with timeless classics, the musical charts Carole King's rise from a teenage dreamer in Brooklyn, New York, to a groundbreaking solo artist whose music defined a generation.
The story begins in the late 1950s, when a young Carole Klein, growing up in a modest Brooklyn household, dreams of making it big in the music industry. Despite societal expectations urging her to pursue a more traditional path, Carole’s immense talent and ambition set her on a different course. At just 16 years old, she sells her first song, defying the odds and laying the foundation for a career that would change the face of music.
The musical follows Carole as she partners with lyricist Gerry Goffin, a gifted writer who becomes not only her creative collaborator but also her husband. Together, they craft a string of unforgettable hits for some of the biggest names of the era, including The Shirelles (“Will You Love Me Tomorrow”), The Drifters (“Some Kind of Wonderful”), and The Righteous Brothers (“You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’”). Their songs resonate with millions, shaping the cultural soundtrack of the 1960s.
But while their professional success is undeniable, Carole and Gerry’s personal lives are a far cry from the harmony of their music. The musical delves into the emotional turbulence of their relationship—marked by the strains of fame, infidelity, and the pressure to succeed. Alongside Carole and Gerry’s story is the lively dynamic between their friends and professional rivals, songwriting duo Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil. With their quick wit, comedic timing, and boundless creativity, Mann and Weil provide a sharp counterbalance to Carole’s journey.
As the narrative unfolds, Carole faces heartbreak, self-doubt, and personal challenges that threaten to derail her dreams. However, her resilience and passion for music propel her forward. The show crescendos with her transformation into a solo artist, culminating in the release of “Tapestry,” her landmark album that became a cultural phenomenon. With hits like “You’ve Got a Friend” and “Natural Woman,” Carole establishes herself as a voice for the ages. Through its vibrant storytelling, “Beautiful" celebrates not only Carole King’s legacy but also the universal struggles and triumphs of finding one’s own path in life.
At the helm of this production is Director Jonathan Infante, a veteran of the musical theatre world with over two decades of experience as a performer, designer, and director. For Infante, directing “Beautiful” is a deeply personal journey. "I’ve loved every show I’ve had the chance to direct, but this one is special. It’s a stunning tribute to some of the greatest careers in music history," he shares.
Infante’s connection to the music is rooted in his own upbringing. “I was raised on Carole King’s songs. In fact, the first concert I ever went to was James Taylor and Carole King,” he recalls. That personal connection made directing this musical a “no-brainer” for Infante, who describes the production as “a joyful romp through one of the most remarkable eras in music.”
Putting together a show of this magnitude required an exceptional cast, and the audition process was no small feat. Over 100 performers auditioned, leading to a grueling six-hour callback to find the perfect fit for each role. "Finding someone to embody Carole King and play piano live onstage added an extra layer of challenge," Infante explains. The search was worth it, though, as Katie Perry Page was cast in the titular role. “Katie truly embodies Carole in every way, from her voice to her piano skills. She’s absolutely captivating,” he says.
The cast also features Nick Lunetta as Gerry Goffin, whose performance captures the complex, darker sides of the character. Brandon Sanchez and Danielle Heaton, as Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil, light up the stage with their humor and charm. The ensemble expands to showcase the talents of groups like The Shirelles, The Drifters, and The Righteous Brothers, bringing the iconic music to life in breathtaking fashion.
Set between 1959 and 1972, “Beautiful” blends drama, concert-style performances, and classic musical theatre to create a production that feels both intimate and grand. Infante highlights Kevin Clowes’ scenic design as a standout element of the show. “It’s truly stunning and perfectly captures the spirit of the era,” he notes.
One of Infante’s favorite moments in the musical is the “1650 Broadway Medley,” a mashup of 1950s hits that transitions seamlessly into the evolving sounds of the 1960s. “It’s such a vibrant introduction to the music we’re about to explore,” he says. Another highlight comes at the end of Act One, where The Shirelles’ rendition of “One Fine Day” merges into Carole’s own reprise of the song. “It’s a breathtaking arrangement and one of those magical musical theatre moments,” Infante says.
Nestled in the Brea Civic and Cultural Center, the Curtis Theatre offers an intimate yet dynamic venue for live performance. With only 199 seats, every audience member is no more than 35 feet from the stage, creating a truly immersive experience. The theatre is surrounded by top-notch dining, the Brea Mall, and vibrant downtown attractions, making it a perfect destination for a night out.
The Curtis Theatre’s mission is to entertain, inspire, and connect the community through exceptional performing arts. With wheelchair accessibility, free parking, and a professional team dedicated to creating memorable experiences, it’s no wonder the venue is a favorite among locals.
“Beautiful: The Carole King Musical” is more than just a show—it’s a celebration of resilience, creativity, and the enduring power of music. With its heartfelt story, stunning performances, and iconic soundtrack, this production promises to inspire and delight audiences of all ages.
Anne Reid is a writer, public & community relations expert, and theatre mom.
“Beautiful: The Carole King Musical”
Curtis Theatre and Southgate Productions
1 Civic Center Circle, Brea, CA
February 7 - 23, 2025
(714) 990-7722, www.cityofbrea.gov/1594/Curtis-Theatre
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