Celebrate the Life and Legacy of Neil Diamond in A Beautiful Noise, a Musical Journey That Will Leave You Singing and Standing in Ovation.

January 21st, 2025

A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical opened last night at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, offering audiences a captivating journey through the untold true story of how a kid from Brooklyn became a chart-busting, show-stopping American rock icon. With 120 million albums sold, a catalogue of timeless classics like “America,” “Forever in Blue Jeans” and “Sweet Caroline,” and accolades including inductions into the Songwriters and Rock and Roll Halls of Fame, a Grammy® Lifetime Achievement Award, and sold-out concerts that made him bigger than Elvis, Neil Diamond’s legacy was made to shine on stage.

Created in collaboration with Neil Diamond himself, this uplifting musical takes us through his life and illustrious career, from his early days as a songwriter to becoming one of the greatest performers of all time. At his wife’s insistence, an older Neil Diamond (portrayed by Robert Westenberg) reluctantly opens up to a therapist, played by Lisa Renée Pitts. Despite his incredible achievements, an unmistakable shadow of inner turmoil hangs over him. Westenberg’s performance is a masterful portrayal of Diamond’s vulnerability and reflective nature.

As the story unfolds, audiences are transported back in time through the eyes of the younger Neil Diamond, brought to life by the charismatic Nick Fradiani. Fradiani’s vocal performance is nothing short of extraordinary—at times, it’s nearly impossible to distinguish his voice from Diamond’s as he belts out the legend’s greatest hits. His portrayal captures not just the voice but also the passion and charisma that made Diamond an international sensation.

Nick Fradiani as ‘Neil – Then’ (center), Robert Westenberg as ‘Neil – Now’ (left), Lisa Reneé Pitts as ‘Doctor’ and ‘The Noise’ in A Beautiful Noise_ The Neil Diamond Musical – Photo credit Jeremy Daniel

The supporting cast is equally phenomenal, with Hannah Jewel Kohn delivering a standout performance as Diamond’s second wife. Her commanding stage presence and powerful vocals were especially captivating during “Forever in Blue Jeans” and “Play Me.” Kohn’s ability to draw the audience’s focus as she moved across the stage was mesmerizing, adding depth to her portrayal.

Hannah Jewel Kohn as ‘Marcia Murphey’ in A Beautiful Noise The Neil Diamond Musical – Photo credit Jeremy Daniel

The minimalist set design worked brilliantly, ensuring the focus remained on the characters and the compelling storyline. The dynamic choreography, combined with the ensemble’s vibrant energy, created what can only be described as “a beautiful noise.” This immersive combination of movement and sound transported the audience into pivotal moments of Diamond’s journey.

Costumes were thoughtfully designed to reflect the time periods, enhancing the storytelling, while lighting and music evolved to mirror the arc of Diamond’s career. Act 1 featured subdued lighting and softer music, reflecting his early struggles, while Act 2 exploded with bright lights, visible band members, and booming music to depict the meteoric rise of his success.

Nick Fradiani as ‘Neil – Then’ (center) and ‘The Noise’ in A Beautiful Noise_ The Neil Diamond Musical – Photo credit Jeremy Daniel

This musical is an unforgettable celebration of Neil Diamond’s legacy. By the end of its two-hour runtime, you’ll find yourself on your feet, singing along with the performers and audience to one of Diamond’s most iconic hits, “Sweet Caroline.” Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering his story for the first time, A Beautiful Noise is an uplifting and electrifying tribute to a true American legend.