Beautiful The Carole King Musical – Bradford Alhambra

WHEN I was asked to review this show I am sorry to say that I didn’t know who Carole King was.

But after seeing her story played out on stage I have a huge respect for an amazing lady who wrote so many songs throughout her career for so many different artists but whose mild-mannered demeanour hid a person with an amazing talent.

When it comes to amazing talent, Brontè Barbè as Carole King was nothing short of wonderful – she captured her character sang beautifully (no pun intended) and gave a emotional performance which had the audience well and truly on her side.

Kane Oliver Parry as Gerry Goffin her husband did well and helped move the story through all the ups and downs. Their close friends Cyntia Weil (Amy Ellen Richardson) and Barry Mann (Matthew Gonsalves) as a competitive songwriter duo were a joy, and I enjoyed both their performances.

Beautiful is a great show for the cast as they get to sing some iconic numbers whether they are playing the Drifters, Righteous Brothers, Neil Sedaka or Shirelles .

As an ensemble they were note-perfect, and the dance routines were a joy.

I did really enjoy Beautiful although felt I needed to know more about Carole King. Some of the songs would appeal more to a slightly older generation who were around when the songs were originally released.

• Until Saturday. Visit bradford-theatres.co.uk or call 01274 432000 to book tickets.

Laura Harness