Carole King (Carol King Klein) is a Songwriter, Singer, and Musician. She in her own right catapulted many career of some of the most influential in the music industry. The Carole King Musical is a tribute to Carole King’s extensive musical influence. This musical was hands down captivating and engaging for audiences of all ages.
Kimmel Center Campus Safety Initiatives
Like many places here in Philadelphia you still must show your proof of vaccination until that rule changes. You also for the safety of all patrons and actors/actresses must wear your mask for the duration of the show. Please allot time to show identification and vaccination before the start of your showing. Also be sure that the mask that you wear covers your nose and mouth.
Carole King’s Musical Influence
Carole King is responsible for being the pen behind some of the most influential singers and musicians of all time. A lot of people who have never heard of Carole King may not even recognize her reach. As a child my Grandfather made sure to introduce me to a lot of the composers behind the scene. Carole King was definitely one of the ones he mentioned. How could he not? You have songs such as “Will you love me tomorrow?” by The Shirelles or “Some Kind of Wonderful” by The Drifters are timeless and classic hits. Carole King’s first husband Gerry Goffin who was her co-writer. It was interesting seeing their story unfold and the pitfalls that the music industry can reveal about a person. A lot of this is still true today.
Music that Transcends
I loved watching many of the backstories of some of the artist that Carole King and Gerry wrote for. Also to note I loved how it wasn’t skimmed over how in Carol’s earlier years, as she wrote for artist of all race, getting the sound of the Black artist was important. Many times Black artist wouldn’t even be showcased on television. They had to fight to get a lot of their songs played on the radio. This is what I mean by Carole King being one of the most influential women artist of all time. She was able to transcend and simply let her talent help engulf the artistry of the artist she wrote for.
All Star Cast
This production has some of the most powerful voices. I was blown away by the artistry and artistic ability of the entire cast. Although it was a full story unfolding; the cast kept the music as tight as their acting. I enjoyed watching the fluidity of how everyone moved around one another. Although it was Carole King’s story, every artist represented also had their moment. Carole King’s ability to see each artist in their own sound was mesmerizing. I was surrounded in the audience by audience members from all ages. Everyone engaged and in happy movement. Good music makes you move and lightens the room.
Production Team
I have to give a standing ovation to the production team. Each scene was carefully orchestrated. I loved it. The team allowed moving parts of each scene to illuminate especially in the scene as Carole is on her way to Times Square to see if she could be considered a writer. Every crafted detail did not go without notice.
Dynamic Band
You can’t talk about one of the greatest to write and perform without having a band that measures up to the challenge. I am sure that if Carole King herself was in the audience she would be beaming. The band was hands down amazing. Every note and beat was down with such precision.
Warmest Hospitality
I actually see something different every time I go to the Kimmel Center. I finally visited the lower level of the theatre. This is where you could get refreshments as well as use the lavatory. Also there was a relaxation area. The staff from the door to the ushers were welcoming and helpful. A special thank you to my plus one always, Elle of Siponwhat.
If you have never heard of Carole King before its a must see. I think there are some who have heard of Carole King without realizing they heard of her too. Her music and legend goes across all types of musical genres. We are sure happy that she didn’t become a teacher like her mother encouraged her to do. Sometimes following your path, believing in your dreams, and learning to push past disappointment pays off. For generations to come, we all will still be touched by Carole King’s artistry.
Beautiful, The Carol King Musical is playing at the Kimmel Center Campus until this Sunday February 27th. Grab your tickets now. This is a must see.
Thank you to the entire cast, production team, and staff of the Kimmel Center. Much appreciation for allowing me to be at the Opening Night. Also thank you to Bryan Buttler Media Relations and staff for the warmest reception always.