Meet Britta Rae: Stepping into the Iconic Role of Carole King
This August, Beautiful – The Carole King Musical takes center stage at Transcendence’s Broadway Under the Stars, and with it comes a truly soulful performance by rising star Britta Rae. Making her Transcendence debut, Britta brings heart, grit, and powerhouse vocals to the role of Carole King—one of music’s most beloved legends. With regional credits including The Prom and multiple productions of Beautiful, Britta is no stranger to telling stories that resonate.
We caught up with Britta for a quick “5 Questions” to talk about stepping into Carole’s shoes, connecting with the music, and what this role means to her personally and professionally.
Audiences love the music in Beautiful, what do you think might surprise them the most?
I think audiences will be most surprised by how many songs they already know and love that came before Tapestry. Carole King and Gerry Goffin (“Will You Love Me Tomorrow,” “Some Kind of Wonderful,” “Natural Woman”) started working at such a young age and have so many hits to show for it! Their friendly competition with Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil (“On Broadway,” “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin,” “Walking in the Rain”) led to some of the most famous songs of the 20th century. My favorite part of doing this show is hearing the whispers of recognition every time a new song begins. I don’t want to give too much away…this show is full of surprises, so you’ll have to come see it for yourself!
What part of Carole’s story do you relate to most closely?
For someone so brilliant in her craft, Carole’s insecurities as a young woman deeply affected how she viewed herself. She was so confident in her work, but that confidence didn’t always carry into her personal life. I think we can all feel that way sometimes. She’s only human! As an artist, sometimes I am incredibly secure and sure of myself, but in my personal life, I still deal with insecurity and doubt. Just like Carole, I’m lucky to have people around me who constantly remind me how beautiful and loved I am. The great thing about this show is that everyone can find times where they connect with her story.
What has been the most memorable part of playing Carole King?
I’ll never forget speaking with audience members after my first performance as Carole. I heard so many stories about the first time they listened to Tapestry and how influential it was during their youth. It’s such an honor to tell this story and sing this music. Seeing people with tears in their eyes as they talk about what Carole means to them is such a gift.
How important is the audience feedback each night, and can we encourage audiences in Sonoma to respond to the songs and moments that move them?
You can absolutely feel the audience’s excitement and love from the stage! I encourage audiences to respond however feels natural to them. There’s so much love in this show, and theirs is nothing wrong with showing that love in return!
Who will enjoy Beautiful – The Carole King Musical?
Anyone and everyone! I actually saw this show for the first time without knowing much about Carole King and only recognizing a few of the hits. My mom can attest…I left the theater saying, “I’m obsessed.” This show is for every generation. It’s enjoyable for people who know every lyric, as well as for people who have never heard of Carole. I think you’ll be surprised at just how many songs you know!