A Beautiful Noise Hits the Nostalgia Notes but Falls Slightly Flat in the Second Act

REVIEW ★★★

Created in collaboration with Neil Diamond, “A Beautiful Noise” is the uplifting true story of how a kid from Brooklyn became a chart-busting, show-stopping American icon. “A Beautiful Noise” is currently captivating audiences at Orlando’s Dr. Phillips Center through February 9. The jukebox musical offers a deep dive into the life and career of the legendary singer-songwriter, presenting a tapestry of his most iconic hits like “America,” “Forever in Blue Jeans” and “Sweet Caroline.”

Rather than a traditional chronological biography, “A Beautiful Noise” takes a therapy session approach, with an older Neil Diamond (played by Robert Westenberg) reflecting on his past while his younger self (Nick Fradiani) relives pivotal moments from his career. It is an interesting concept that adds some emotional depth, but at times, the dramatic dialogue feels a bit forced and repetitive. The real highlights come when the cast breaks into Diamond’s greatest hits—because let’s be honest, that’s what the audience came for.

The first half of the show delivers exactly what fans want—big, crowd-pleasing numbers like “Sweet Caroline,” “Cracklin’ Rosie” and “Cherry Cherry.” Fradiani, best known for American Idol, does an admirable job channeling Diamond’s signature voice and charisma. The ensemble delivers energy to the classic songs and for a moment, the audience is transported back to the golden era of 1970s arena rock.

During the second half, the momentum fizzles as the show shifts focus to Diamond’s personal struggles, the pacing slows and the song choices become less familiar. Instead of more of his greatest hits, the latter part of the musical leans heavily into introspective ballads and lesser-known tracks that don’t carry the same punch as the first act. The highlights of the second half include “Forever In Blue Jeans” and the beloved song, “America,” is sung alongside Diamond’s parents, Rose (Kate Mulligan) and Kieve (Dale Duko). The celebratory lyrics about immigrants coming to America briefly invigorate the crowd. While this approach adds emotional weight, it may leave casual fans disengaged. The audience’s energy, which was electric in the first half, noticeably dims by the final curtain.

Visually, the production does a fine job of recreating the hallmark glitz and glamour of Diamond’s career, with a vibrant lighting design and sleek staging. However, in the end, A Beautiful Noise is a musical that appeals to Baby Boomers—those who grew up with Diamond’s music and will appreciate hearing it live, even if the storytelling does not quite emulate the magic of the songs themselves.

If you’re a die-hard Neil Diamond fan, A Beautiful Noise will very likely hit the right nostalgic notes. Fradiani does an exceptional job capturing the essence of Diamond, but for the casual theatergoers or those hoping for a consistently high-energy jukebox musical, the uneven pacing and a lackluster second act may leave you underwhelmed.