Photo Courtesy of Atlantis Theatrical Entertainment Group
One of the musicals I had always wanted to watch on Broadway but never had the chance to was the Tony award-winning BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL written by Douglas Mc Garth. Thankfully Atlantis Theatrical Entertainment Group included this wonderful production in its 20th anniversary offering.
As I took my seat at the Meralco Theater, I allowed myself to get lost in the remarkable life of Carole King that showcased her body of work that have become a part of so many people’s lives.
Playing the title role of Carole King is Kayla Rivera who was last seen in Atlantis’ Side Show. Her crystal clear, pitch perfect voice truly gave me chills especially when she sang So Far Away and Natural Woman.
Nick Varricchio plays King’s husband and writing partner, Gerry Goffin, a cool aspiring writer who wooed King in her teens and eventually marries her, collaborating timeless hits in the 60’s. Nick successfully gave a performance that showed his vulnerability by showcasing the dark, psychologically troubled, insecure life of a tortured man.
Photo Courtesy of Atlantis Theatrical Entertainment Group
Mikkie Bradshaw – Volante and George Schulze turned in scene stealing performances as Carole and Gerry’s songwriting rivals Cynthia Weil and Barry Mann. It was sheer brilliance. I could not get over their chemistry and impeccable comic timing. I was pleasantly surprised to know that their characters penned the hit songs On Broadway and You’ve Lost That Lovin Feeling.
All throughout the show I would catch myself whispering to my wife, “oh Carole King wrote that song?!” timeless hits such as Oh Carol, Will You Love Me Tomorrow, One Fine Day, The Locomotion and You’ve Got A Friend.
The extremely talented cast’s performance truly lit up the Meralco stage with stand out performances by Gab Pangilinan as the lead singer of The Shirelles and Marilyn Wald, Jamie Wilson as producer Don Kirschner, Carla Guevara Laforteza as Carole’s mother Genie Klien, Marrone Cruz as Carole’s best friend Betty, Nelsito Gomez as Neil Sedaka, Tim Pavino, Markus Mann, Arman Ferrer and Jep Go as The Drifters. Oh Jep, your voice is like butter – smooth and rich! I am a fan!
I have to commend Bobby Garcia for directing the show seamlessly making everything flow with heart and passion and for assembling a team that gave us a technically flawless show. I mean come on, the lights (Aaron Porter), sound design (Josh Millican), set design (Faust Peneyra), costume design (Raven Ong) and the band led by Musical Director Farley Asuncion. It was breathtaking! I applaud Cecile Martinez for choreographing all the big show-stopping production numbers with charm. It was no small feat at all. Bravo Guys!
Photo Courtesy of Atlantis Theatrical Entertainment Group
This is one show no one should miss. It is an empowering tale of a woman who has gone through pain, heartache and became victorious while remaining humble in life.
I must warn you though, you may be tempted to sing-a-long but I beg you not to but just sit back, relax and enjoy the beauty of BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL.
It will run at the MeralcoTheater, Pasig City fromJune14 to July7, 2019. For tickets, visit www.ticketworld.com.ph or call 891-9999.
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