“A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical,” which debuted at the Forrest Theatre in Philadelphia on December 10, tells the story of Neil Diamond’s rise to stardom, blending his iconic music with a deeply personal narrative. The production, shaped by Diamond himself, provides an authentic portrayal of his life, featuring two actors in the dual roles of Neil Diamond at different stages of his career.
Nick Fradiani portrays Neil: Then, capturing the energy and charisma of the young, rising star with hit songs like “Cracklin’ Rosie” and “Sweet Caroline.” His performance exudes vitality, vulnerability, and the magnetic presence that defined Diamond’s early years. On the other hand, Robert Westenberg plays Neil: Now, an older and reflective Diamond in the later years of his life, grappling with existential questions and the realities of aging, including the looming presence of Parkinson’s disease.
Westenberg, a seasoned Broadway veteran, draws personal connections to his portrayal of Neil: Now, acknowledging the challenges of aging and the struggle between past success and present vulnerability. His performance brings depth and introspection to Diamond’s character, especially in the powerful song “I Am… I Said,” which explores the theme of identity.
While Fradiani and Westenberg’s Neils are not mirror images of one another, their performances complement each other. Westenberg describes Fradiani as his “North Star,” someone whose essence guides him as he balances the exuberance of youth with the reflective weight of age.
The musical transcends the typical jukebox musical by focusing on the personal and emotional aspects of Diamond’s life, making it an intimate and moving experience. The deep exploration of Diamond’s identity and the vulnerability shown in songs like “I Am… I Said” underscore the emotional core of the production, drawing the audience into the heart of Diamond’s struggle with fame, aging, and self-discovery.
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