A Beautiful Noise rocks Hartford's Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts
By Kiersten Bjork (October 1, 2024)
The national tour of The Neil Diamond Musical: A Beautiful Noise, currently playing at The Bushnell in Hartford, is a rockin’ good time. With a book by Anthony McCarten and music and lyrics by Neil Diamond, A Beautiful Noise is filled with recognizable tunes, performed by a top-notch cast, and all set within an electric production design – the recipe for a fun show that has audiences enthralled from the very first chords.
A Beautiful Noise follows legendary singer and songwriter, Neil Diamond (Robert Westenberg), as he recounts his life through his songs in a conversation with his therapist (Lisa Reneé Pitts). We see Neil remember his highest highs and lowest lows, leading up to his current present, where he can no longer tour and perform. His therapist poses the question, “can you live with that?” to which Neil replies, “that is the question.” As he relives his life, we get to witness Neil back then (Nick Fradiani) as he falls in love and marries Jaye Posner (Tiffany Tatreau), then later Marcia Murphey (Hannah Jewel Kohn), all the while juggling family, fame, and his own feelings. He experiences what he refers to as “clouds,” which come sweeping in when he steps off the stage, dragging him down into the dumps, and leaving him always chasing that high. A Beautiful Noise is a powerful yet poignant look at the life and career of the chart-topping American singer-songwriter. Set to the iconic Neil Diamond songs you know and love, from “America” and “Forever in Blue Jeans” to “Kentucky Woman,” and of course, “Sweet Caroline,” A Beautiful Noise will have you singing along, tapping your feet, and practically dancing in your seat from start to finish. The current touring production is directed by Austin Regan with original direction by Michael Mayer and choreographed by Yasmine Lee with original choreography by Steven Hoggett. Sonny Paladino is billed for music supervision and arrangements, with vocal design by Annmarie Milazzo, incidental music and dance arrangements by Brian Usifer, and orchestrations by Bob Gaudio, Paladino and Usifer.
The national tour of The Neil Diamond Musical: A Beautiful Noise, currently playing at The Bushnell in Hartford, is a rockin’ good time. With a book by Anthony McCarten and music and lyrics by Neil Diamond, A Beautiful Noise is filled with recognizable tunes, performed by a top-notch cast, and all set within an electric production design – the recipe for a fun show that has audiences enthralled from the very first chords.
A Beautiful Noise follows legendary singer and songwriter, Neil Diamond (Robert Westenberg), as he recounts his life through his songs in a conversation with his therapist (Lisa Reneé Pitts). We see Neil remember his highest highs and lowest lows, leading up to his current present, where he can no longer tour and perform. His therapist poses the question, “can you live with that?” to which Neil replies, “that is the question.” As he relives his life, we get to witness Neil back then (Nick Fradiani) as he falls in love and marries Jaye Posner (Tiffany Tatreau), then later Marcia Murphey (Hannah Jewel Kohn), all the while juggling family, fame, and his own feelings. He experiences what he refers to as “clouds,” which come sweeping in when he steps off the stage, dragging him down into the dumps, and leaving him always chasing that high. A Beautiful Noise is a powerful yet poignant look at the life and career of the chart-topping American singer-songwriter. Set to the iconic Neil Diamond songs you know and love, from “America” and “Forever in Blue Jeans” to “Kentucky Woman,” and of course, “Sweet Caroline,” A Beautiful Noise will have you singing along, tapping your feet, and practically dancing in your seat from start to finish. The current touring production is directed by Austin Regan with original direction by Michael Mayer and choreographed by Yasmine Lee with original choreography by Steven Hoggett. Sonny Paladino is billed for music supervision and arrangements, with vocal design by Annmarie Milazzo, incidental music and dance arrangements by Brian Usifer, and orchestrations by Bob Gaudio, Paladino and Usifer.
Neil Diamond - Then is embodied to perfection by Nick Fradiani. He’s got the voice (both singing and spoken), the look, and the physicality to successfully portray the legend himself. From his entrance applause to the final bow, the audience is all over Fradiani, and I’m sure it doesn’t hurt that the American Idol season 14 winner hails from Guilford, CT, not far from the Hartford venue. Though all of the numbers he does are great, my particular favorite does have to be the obvious – “Sweet Caroline.” Fradiani really leans into the role on this one, building up from the first chords of the song that would change Diamond’s life, to then interacting with the audience and driving the energy of the room through the roof. Fradiani has a solid dynamic with each of his scene partners, from Tiffany Tatreau’s Jaye to Hannah Jewel Kohn’s Marcia.
Neil - Now, the older Neil after he’s been forced to set aside his performing career due to an aging body, is played skillfully by Robert Westenberg. Much of his scenework consists of conversations with Lisa Reneé Pitts as Diamond’s Therapist, and the two of them create an excellent rapport in their scenes. Westenberg balances the exhaustion of Diamond’s age with the spirit and tenacity of the vibrant performer, creating a truthful portrait of a man who has had a long life on the road as a touring musician, with all its ups and downs. His rendition of “I Am… I Said” near the end of the show is moving and incredibly well done.
Lisa Reneé Pitts plays Neil’s Therapist. Pitts brings a calm, soothing voice with just the right combination of sweetness and tough love to the part. She’s got a few particularly enjoyable one-liners in regard to the songs that the Therapist has or hasn’t heard from Diamond’s extensive discography. The relationship between her and Westenberg is endearing and it’s quite enjoyable to have that front seat view of the conversations they have, inspired by the real conversations that Diamond had with his former therapist, Dr. Lu Katzman.
Diamond’s first wife, Jaye Posner, is portrayed beautifully by Tiffany Tatreau. She gives Jaye a “girl next door” feel to her, bringing the kind and supportive energy to the early scenes and then channeling a fierce anger in “Love on the Rocks” that has the audience holding their breath as Diamond and Posner break it off. She is both endearing and heartbreaking in the sincerity of the love that she embodies for Diamond as they are beginning to drift apart, and it’s riveting to watch.
Hannah Jewel Kohn lights up the stage as Neil’s second wife, Marcia Murphey. She tends to be dressed in pops of color, particularly red, and Kohn really does bring a spark to her performance. She is an excellent singer and dancer, knocking “Forever In Blue Jeans” out of the park. She takes us on the journey with Marcia, from her first moments meeting Diamond at his first live performance, to falling in love with him, their marriage, and beyond.
Neil - Now, the older Neil after he’s been forced to set aside his performing career due to an aging body, is played skillfully by Robert Westenberg. Much of his scenework consists of conversations with Lisa Reneé Pitts as Diamond’s Therapist, and the two of them create an excellent rapport in their scenes. Westenberg balances the exhaustion of Diamond’s age with the spirit and tenacity of the vibrant performer, creating a truthful portrait of a man who has had a long life on the road as a touring musician, with all its ups and downs. His rendition of “I Am… I Said” near the end of the show is moving and incredibly well done.
Lisa Reneé Pitts plays Neil’s Therapist. Pitts brings a calm, soothing voice with just the right combination of sweetness and tough love to the part. She’s got a few particularly enjoyable one-liners in regard to the songs that the Therapist has or hasn’t heard from Diamond’s extensive discography. The relationship between her and Westenberg is endearing and it’s quite enjoyable to have that front seat view of the conversations they have, inspired by the real conversations that Diamond had with his former therapist, Dr. Lu Katzman.
Diamond’s first wife, Jaye Posner, is portrayed beautifully by Tiffany Tatreau. She gives Jaye a “girl next door” feel to her, bringing the kind and supportive energy to the early scenes and then channeling a fierce anger in “Love on the Rocks” that has the audience holding their breath as Diamond and Posner break it off. She is both endearing and heartbreaking in the sincerity of the love that she embodies for Diamond as they are beginning to drift apart, and it’s riveting to watch.
Hannah Jewel Kohn lights up the stage as Neil’s second wife, Marcia Murphey. She tends to be dressed in pops of color, particularly red, and Kohn really does bring a spark to her performance. She is an excellent singer and dancer, knocking “Forever In Blue Jeans” out of the park. She takes us on the journey with Marcia, from her first moments meeting Diamond at his first live performance, to falling in love with him, their marriage, and beyond.
Music producer Ellie Greenwich and Neil’s mother, Kate Diamond are played by Kate A. Mulligan. Mulligan is spunky and hilarious in her first moments opposite Fradiani, constantly needling the young Diamond as he tries to pitch his songs. Mulligan and Fradiani play off of each other quite well, and it’s enjoyable to see Mulligan throughout as Greenwich continues to pop up at different points in Diamond’s life. Her performance as Kate Diamond is equally amusing, yet sobering, as she channels the over-dramatized fears of raising her young son in a world that has proven to be dangerous for their family.
Fred Weintraub and Tommy O’Rourke are both played by Tuck Milligan, who plays each role with strong character choices. I particularly like his portrayal of stereotypical gangster O’Rourke, which got some good laughs from the audience. Similarly, Bert Berns and Kieve Diamond, Neil’s father, are both played by Michael Accardo, who also leans into somewhat stereotypical characterizations, but in a way that works well for the roles. Accardo plays the high-strung producer and the sometimes equally-as-tense father with just the right amount of nerves, touch of humor, and anxiety that they need.
Rounding out the company are Cooper Clack, Chris Marsh Clark, Deirdre Dunkin, Ginger Hurley, Spencer Donovan Jones, Ellen McGihon, Thabitha Moruthane, Tasheim Ramsey Pack, Jeilani Rhone-Collins, and J’Kobe Wallace, who make up the ensemble, or “The Beautiful Noise.” Dennis Dizon, Rene Mirai Guyon, Jer, Zoë Maloney, Daniela Rodrigo, and Alec Michael Ryan serve as the swings for the production. Dale Duko is the standby for Neil - Now, among others. The ensemble as a whole is wonderful to watch, particularly in the impressive dance numbers worked into the “Stadium Medley.”
Fred Weintraub and Tommy O’Rourke are both played by Tuck Milligan, who plays each role with strong character choices. I particularly like his portrayal of stereotypical gangster O’Rourke, which got some good laughs from the audience. Similarly, Bert Berns and Kieve Diamond, Neil’s father, are both played by Michael Accardo, who also leans into somewhat stereotypical characterizations, but in a way that works well for the roles. Accardo plays the high-strung producer and the sometimes equally-as-tense father with just the right amount of nerves, touch of humor, and anxiety that they need.
Rounding out the company are Cooper Clack, Chris Marsh Clark, Deirdre Dunkin, Ginger Hurley, Spencer Donovan Jones, Ellen McGihon, Thabitha Moruthane, Tasheim Ramsey Pack, Jeilani Rhone-Collins, and J’Kobe Wallace, who make up the ensemble, or “The Beautiful Noise.” Dennis Dizon, Rene Mirai Guyon, Jer, Zoë Maloney, Daniela Rodrigo, and Alec Michael Ryan serve as the swings for the production. Dale Duko is the standby for Neil - Now, among others. The ensemble as a whole is wonderful to watch, particularly in the impressive dance numbers worked into the “Stadium Medley.”
Scenic design by David Rockwell is well-suited for the world of the show. Much of the design incorporates a linear look, reminiscent of the cables of the Brooklyn Bridge (Diamond is from Flatbush). One aspect of the design that I absolutely love is the array of practical lights that are flown in and out for different scenes, Rockwell working in partnership with lighting designer Kevin Adams. There is something about the warmth of the practical lamps, all of various shapes, sizes, and styles, being used in their different configurations, which puts that final finishing touch on the production. Adams does a great job all around with the use of color, beams illuminated by haze that makes them pop, and different strobing and flashing light effects. Much of the show exists in that pop/rock concert space, and Rockwell and Adams work well in harmony to create an excellent look.
Costumes by designer Emilio Sosa are stunning. There are so many costumes in this piece that I found myself taking note of – particularly those for Neil – Then, Marcia, and The Beautiful Noise. Neil – Then has a gorgeous array of sequins, sparkles, and fringe, while Marcia, as I mentioned, has some fantastic pops of color. I loved her red looks, and also particularly loved the green dress she wears as their relationship is nearing its end. Hair, wig, and makeup design by Luc Verschueren is also well-executed – I always appreciate a show that takes the time and effort to show the changing hair styles over time, and Verschueren has done an excellent job showcasing the passing of time with the different wigs.
Sound design by Jessica Paz is solid and supports the production as it should. For a show with very big musical numbers, the pit and performers are well-balanced throughout. It’s always a tricky thing to balance those really big pop/rock numbers, especially with all those musicians, but the show sounded solid throughout.
Costumes by designer Emilio Sosa are stunning. There are so many costumes in this piece that I found myself taking note of – particularly those for Neil – Then, Marcia, and The Beautiful Noise. Neil – Then has a gorgeous array of sequins, sparkles, and fringe, while Marcia, as I mentioned, has some fantastic pops of color. I loved her red looks, and also particularly loved the green dress she wears as their relationship is nearing its end. Hair, wig, and makeup design by Luc Verschueren is also well-executed – I always appreciate a show that takes the time and effort to show the changing hair styles over time, and Verschueren has done an excellent job showcasing the passing of time with the different wigs.
Sound design by Jessica Paz is solid and supports the production as it should. For a show with very big musical numbers, the pit and performers are well-balanced throughout. It’s always a tricky thing to balance those really big pop/rock numbers, especially with all those musicians, but the show sounded solid throughout.
A Beautiful Noise gives audiences the best of both worlds – live theatre and live concert experience – mixing the talented company of actors, singers, and dancers with the star-power of Fradiani’s performance as the legendary singer, creating a truly exhilarating evening of theatre. Experience the production for yourself – see A Beautiful Noise at The Bushnell before it moves on after October 6, or join the tour for another performance on their route. Additional dates and venues can be found at abeautifulnoisethemusical.com/tour.
A Beautiful Noise runs October 1-6, 2024, at The Bushnell in Hartford, CT. Tickets are available online at bushnell.org or by calling the Box Office at (860) 987-5900.
Kiersten Bjork is a professional theatremaker, performer, and reviewer (Connecticut Critics Circle) from Branford, CT.
A Beautiful Noise runs October 1-6, 2024, at The Bushnell in Hartford, CT. Tickets are available online at bushnell.org or by calling the Box Office at (860) 987-5900.
Kiersten Bjork is a professional theatremaker, performer, and reviewer (Connecticut Critics Circle) from Branford, CT.