Highland Community College has announced “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical” for Summerset 49. Production dates for “Beautiful” are June 21-22 and 27-29 at 7:30 p.m. and matinee showings at 3 p.m. on June 23 and 30 in the Fine Arts Theatre in the Ferguson Fine Arts Center located at 2998 W. Pearl City Rd., Freeport, Ill.
“Beautiful” narrates the inspiring true story of a teenage songwriter who ascended to music legend, complemented by the timeless music and lyrics of icons Carole King, Gerry Goffin, Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil. Featuring such enduring classics as “You’ve Got a Friend,” “One Fine Day,” “So Far Away,” “Take Good Care of My Baby,” “Up on the Roof,” “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feeling,” “Will You Love Me Tomorrow” and “Natural Woman,” this Tony® and Grammy® Award-winning musical sensation is a tapestry woven with unforgettable melodies and a narrative that lingers in the heart.
“This musical embodies the journey of overcoming adversity through the power of music, offering audiences an uplifting celebration of how one woman’s voice can inspire change and resonate with people across generations,” said Director Dr. Randy Haldeman. “‘Beautiful: The Carole King Musical’ is a profound biographical narrative that showcases the resilience and creativity of Carole King.”
Summerset is a collaboration of the theatre and music departments at Highland Community College.
‘Beautiful: The Carole King Musical’ cast list:
- Carole King: Sarah Buchmann, Freeport
- Gerry Goffin: Ben Skipor, Freeport
- Cynthia Weil: Kya Eckert, Freeport
- Barry Mann: Addison Cross, Freeport
- Don Kirschner: Jim Yeager, Machesney Park
- Genie Klein: Joy Delay, Freeport
- Marilyn Wald, Connie Francis: Julia Jansen, Freeport
- Shirley Owens (Shirelles #1): Erin Schrader, Lena
- Janelle Woods, Doris Coley (Shirelles #2): Davida Sanders[jsm1] , Freeport
- Beverly Lee (Shirelles #4): Gwendolyn Sanders, Freeport
- Nick, Bobby Hatfield (Righteous Brother #2): Hudson Groezinger, Shannon
- Bill Medley (Righteous Brother #2), Gene Vincent: August Haldeman, Charlotte, N.C.
- Lucille, Ensemble: Sara Johnson, Freeport
- Betty, Ensemble: AJ Evon, Freeport
- Lou Adler, Ensemble: Robyn Swan, Savanna
- Engineer, Ensemble: Damian Kauffman, Freeport
- Neil Sedaka, Ensemble: Ethan Shippy, Davis
- Bobby Vee, Ensemble: Harley Deal, Freeport
- Dave Sommerville (Lead Diamond), Rudy Lewis (Drifter #3): Darieon Ishmon, Freeport
Ticket prices are $20 for adults, $18 for seniors (60 and older), and $10 for students and children. Tickets are now on sale!