A Beautiful Noise

Young & Old Neil Diamond face to face

Born on January 24, 1941, Neil Diamond, a young Jewish boy from the streets of Brooklyn, grew up with dreams of becoming a songwriter. He immersed himself in the world of music, sharpening his skills and seeking to write pop hits and meaningful lyrics that would resonate with music lovers. His journey reflects a deep passion for songwriting, and the power of words is the framework behind this musical, A Beautiful Noise, making him one of the greatest songwriters and singers inducted into the Songwriters and Rock and Roll Halls of Fame. Created in collaboration with Neil Diamond, "A Beautiful Noise" is a captivating biographical jukebox that delves into Neil Diamond's extraordinary life. The production is a thrilling spectacle, bursting with iconic songs that resonate deeply with audiences. Each performance is infused with vibrant energy, showcasing remarkable talents that bring Diamond's story to life. The show highlights his musical genius, from heartwarming ballads to irresistible songs that have people singing in stadiums worldwide. Diamond battled with depression when he was away from the stage, a struggle he referred to as "clouds," which made it challenging for him to fully embrace and enjoy the success he had worked so hard to achieve. His journey through this dark period of depression lasted for many years; Diamond wrote one of my favorite songs, "I Am... I Said," a personal song that reflected his inner struggles. In 2018, Diamond received a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease, a condition which ultimately led him to retire from touring. Neil Diamond began his music career at age 15 when he acquired his first guitar and composed his inaugural song, "Here Them Bells." He entered the professional music industry in the early 1960s, and his songwriting and exceptional performances laid the foundation for a successful and enduring career.

"A Beautiful Noise" is an evocative play that delves into the later years of the iconic singer-songwriter Neil Diamond. The narrative centers around an older Diamond as he visits his psychiatrist, seeking guidance and understanding as he navigates the complexities of life after his illustrious singing career has ended. The setting is intimate, with both characters primarily on stage for most of the performance. Throughout the sessions, the psychiatrist employs a unique therapeutic approach by retrieving a booklet filled with the lyrics and themes of hundreds of Diamond's songs—allowing them to serve as a crucial tool in their dialogue. This booklet becomes a tangible representation of his past, evoking memories and emotions as Diamond reflects on the various chapters of his life. The "beautiful noise" theme resonates deeply within the play, encapsulating Diamond's legacy's nostalgia and bittersweet essence. As he reminisces about his old songs, the audience is treated to poignant moments that explore both the highs and lows of his career, shedding light on the struggles of communication and the weight of depression that accompany a life spent in the spotlight and how the price of fame, can destroy the bonds of marriage and family. The younger Neil struggles with profound depression, yearning for success not just for himself but to provide for his family and his road family while seeking to find peace within—while the older Neil is on a healing journey, striving to leave behind the darkness that made his earlier years difficult and impacted his two marriages.

A Beautiful Noise artfully weaves through the narrative of music and memory, highlighting the true life story of Neil Diamond's rise to fame, period of depression and loneliness, his broken marriages, and his motivation about a frog who dreamed of being a king. Many of Neil Diamond's songs have meaning, including "America," a narrative about his grandparents who fled the harsh realities of Jewish oppression in Russia, searching for freedom and traveling in the cramped steerage section of a Holland America ship. Sweet Caroline, Diamond was signed to Bert Berns' Bang Records, and the play tells the story of him staying in a motel room in Memphis, Tennessee, to write his final song for the label, "Sweet Caroline," so he could be released from his contract. Diamond said the song was originally about his wife at the time, Marcia, but he needed a three-syllable name to rhyme. He later revealed a photo of Caroline Kennedy, the daughter of John F. Kennedy. Song Sung Blue was a song that explores themes of depression and how singing about sadness can bring healing. I Am...I Said is a therapeutic song that took over four months to complete. Diamond stated it was one of the most challenging songs to complete. 

The production states that Neil Diamond had 39 albums, 40 Top 40 Hits, and sold 120 million albums. Depending on where you research, the total number of his albums sold is close to 140 million. With classic hits like "America, Forever in Blue Jeans, Solitary Man, Cracklin Rose, I Am... I Said, and Sweet Caroline." NETworks Presentations, Ken Davenport, and Bob Gaudio produce the national tour of "A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical." Nick Fradiani shines as Neil Diamond, making him an exceptional choice for this role. His remarkable talent and charisma bring Diamond's iconic sound and stage presence to life, captivating audiences with every performance. It's hard not to be amazed by how effortlessly he embodies the essence of Diamond! Robert Westenberg delivered a remarkable portrayal of Neil Diamond in his later years, capturing the essence of an aging artist grappling with the reality of never stepping onto the stage again. Lisa Renee Pitts delivered a compelling portrayal as Diamond's therapist, bringing depth and sensitivity to her character. Hannah Jewel Kohn impressed audiences with her performance as Marcia, one of Diamond's three devoted wives. And don't miss the brilliant acting of Kate A. Mulligan, who shone brightly in her role as Ellie Greenwich, the talented singer-songwriter and music producer who played a pivotal role in discovering Neil Diamond. Her performance was remarkable, captivating the audience with her talent and charisma. The production features a vibrant cast of 24 talented performers and showcases an impressive collection of 29 songs. While the first act captures the audience's attention with its engaging performances and lively tunes, it is in the second act where the musical truly elevates itself, delivering powerful musicality and exhilarating moments that provide the audience with a deeper sense of Diamond's struggles with depression. Beautiful Noise triumphs, demonstrating that overcoming obstacles is essential—just as in Diamond's remarkable journey. For all true Neil Diamond enthusiasts, don't miss the Playbill—turn to page eight, where you'll find an eloquent and heartfelt letter from the 83-year-old Diamond. In this letter, he passionately expresses his thoughts and feelings about the Broadway musical, giving fans a deeper insight into his connection to the project.

One of the lines at the end of the musical has the elderly Diamond saying, "I'm just counting up my blessing, and I'm still counting." A Beautiful Noise is one of those musical blessings you need to see.

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Cadillac Palace

The Neil Diamond Musical: A Beautiful Noise

Book by Anthony McCarten

Music and lyrics by Neil Diamond

Directed by Michael Mayer

THROUGH NOVEMBER 24

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