By Chase Johnson
A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical, now at the Aronoff, starts off in a therapist office. Neil is having a session with his doctor. The setting quickly evolves into Neil Diamond’s memories brought on by a book of his entire discography. Neil and the therapist enter into a fantastical world of Neil’s larger than life memories. Each one is about a period in his career or influencing one of his hits. Together, Neil and his therapist explore his triumphs and his many low points.
The real Neil Diamond (currently 84 years old) was heavily involved in the writing and music of the show. Anthony McCarten’s script is also incredible. Every ounce of it oozes charm and a sort of self-deprecating humor that is both very funny and shows a complicated individual with insight into himself and his legacy. Full disclosure other than “Sweet Caroline” I didn’t know much about Diamond’s music going into this show. I am not old enough to have been around when Neil Diamond was at the peak of his popularity, and while I had certainly heard of him before this I didn’t know how much of an impact he had on a generation. The house was packed on a Tuesday night, and everyone in it was having a blast. They rocked the House.
The Performances
Neil – Then (Nick Fradiani), and Neil – Now (Robert Westenberg) both show a changing yet consistent portrayal of the famous singer. You can see the progression from one to the other very clearly. Both have excellent singing voices in addition to portraying the same character at different points of their life believably.
Neil’s ex wives Jaye (Tiffany Tatreau) and Marcia (Hannah Jewel Kohn) do a fantastic job of showing off their distinct personalities and their individual dynamics with Diamond, although it is deeply ironic albeit sad that they both divorce him for similar reasons. Finally the Doctor (Lisa Reneé Pitts) and the entire ensemble deserve praise. The ensemble executes the choreography and back up vocals in such a way that it makes the world come alive. You will not only suspend your disbelief, but at points you’ll feel you’re in the audience for one of Neil Diamond’s legendary concerts, or at the Bitter End on the night he played his first crowd.
The Production
You will see all of the glitz and glamor of a 60’s rock concert. The sets (David Rockwell) are era appropriate and the lighting (Kevin Adams) and sound (Jessica Paz) are what you would expect from a Neil Diamond concert, in other words over the top and fantastic. Costumes (Emilio Sosa) range from Neil’s fresh off the Brooklyn street threads to his most elaborate sequined costumes, and the attention to historical accuracy gives the entire production a feeling of respect, not just for Neil Diamond, but for the eras that saw his rise to superstardom.
The Bottom Line
Absolutely go see this show. If you are a fan of Neil Diamond, it is an excellent semi-autobiographical story framed through Neil’s therapy sessions. It’s full of with humor, insight, and a walkthrough of Neil’s life and career. Even if you aren’t familiar with most of Neil’s music (which is a very funny joke that runs throughout the musical) you will be blown away by the sheer spectacle and breath of life these performers put into every single song. The night I attended the cast band and crew got multiple standing ovations.
Get Tickets to A Beautiful Noise
A Beautiful Noise runs until May 18th. You may purchase tickets at the Official Cincinnati Arts Association (Aronoff) Box Office LINK.
- RUNTIME: 2hrs, 15mins including 1 intermission.
- AGE RECOMMENDATION: Suitable for audiences ofr all ages
