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Carole King Musical, 'Beautiful,' In Search Of New Star

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – One of the most coveted roles on Broadway is up for grabs.

The Tony Award-winning hit musical "Beautiful," based on the life of legendary singer Carole King in the 70s, is in search of a new star.

CBS2's Meg Baker caught up with hopefuls who came from far and wide, lining up wherever they could get a spot for their chance at stardom.

"There are a lot more people here than I thought," one woman auditioning told Baker.

It wasn't just about the music, it was just as much about the hair, Baker reported.

"I watched a whole bunch of YouTube videos, different live performances and The Drifters, picked up their rifts and incorporated my own style into it," Broadway hopeful Michelle said.

Casting Director Stephen Kopel said the chosen actress will perform in the future Broadway and national touring productions as King.

"She's such an iconic singer that it's sort of impossible to replicate her sound. We're looking for someone who can bring a part of themselves to the role," he said.

Kopel can't reveal if there is a winner yet, but in terms of losers, he said it hasn't been too bad.

"We haven't had too many epic fails. Check back in with me at 6 p.m.," he joked.

Rebecca Maddey's singing won the judges over and she was asked to go a step further and read lines from the play.

The 22-year-old says you never know what the future holds.

"I feel pretty good, it was my first Broadway audition," she said. "Hey, you never know, could be great!"

The studio says they not only want someone who looks and sings like King, but someone that embodies her spirit.

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