Just In:Review: Neil Diamond fans, your musical awaits in ‘A Beautiful Noise’ at the Cadillac Palace……

For fans of Neil Diamond, the wait is finally over. “A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical,” which recently made its way to Chicago’s Cadillac Palace Theatre, delivers an experience that goes beyond a typical jukebox musical. This show is a tribute, an homage, and a window into the life and music of one of the most iconic singer-songwriters of the 20th century. With a strong central performance, a vivid set design, and a compelling narrative that captures the essence of Diamond’s tumultuous career, “A Beautiful Noise” is not just a concert, but an emotional journey through the highs and lows of a music legend’s life.

A Symphony of Story and Song

The concept behind A Beautiful Noise is unique in its approach to a musical biopic. While most jukebox musicals are strictly about playing hit songs, this show weaves Neil Diamond’s timeless classics into a larger narrative about the man behind the music. Directed by Michael Mayer, the production is a stunning amalgamation of biography and entertainment. It offers insight into Diamond’s rise to stardom, his internal struggles, personal triumphs, and his often complicated relationship with fame and family.

The story is structured in two timelines: one following a younger Neil Diamond at the beginning of his career in the 1960s, and the other focusing on a more mature Diamond as he reflects on his legacy. The show’s ability to balance these two perspectives is a testament to the storytelling prowess of the creative team.

A key figure in both timelines is the character of Neil Diamond, portrayed by the talented Will Swenson. Swenson, whose performance exudes both grit and warmth, brings a perfect blend of vulnerability and charisma to the role. His portrayal of Diamond is not an impersonation, but rather an interpretation that captures the essence of the man. Swenson brings Diamond’s energy to life, imbuing the performance with both intensity and tenderness. Whether belting out his iconic hits or navigating poignant moments of self-doubt, Swenson holds the audience’s attention with every step.

The Music: A Beautiful Noise

What truly elevates the musical is the catalogue of songs that have defined Neil Diamond’s career. From the opening notes of “Sweet Caroline” to the emotional power of “America” and “Cracklin’ Rosie,” the songs themselves become characters in the story. Each piece is not simply a performance but a reflection of Neil’s journey.

The musical score features many of Diamond’s greatest hits, from early works like “Solitary Man” and “Girl, You’ll Be a Woman Soon” to later classics such as “I Am…I Said” and “Love on the Rocks.” As the music evolves alongside the narrative, the audience is taken on a journey that reflects the shifting phases of Diamond’s life—his rise to fame, his struggles with his personal identity, and his eventual self-reconciliation.

The live band, led by music director Steve Marzullo, is exceptional. The musicianship is tight, the arrangements are lush, and the performances are energetic. The seamless integration of the live music with the performance creates an atmosphere that feels as if Diamond himself were performing live. For those who have attended Neil Diamond concerts, the music in A Beautiful Noise will evoke a sense of nostalgia and joy, while newcomers to his music will likely be entranced by its timeless appeal.

Set Design: The Heartbeat of the Show

In a musical like A Beautiful Noise, the visual elements play a crucial role in enhancing the storytelling. The set design, by David Rockwell, is nothing short of spectacular. The Cadillac Palace Theatre, with its classic charm and grandeur, provides the perfect backdrop for a production of this scale. The set takes the audience on a visual journey through Diamond’s life and career, from his humble beginnings in Brooklyn to the grand stages of the world. The projections of iconic images, such as album covers and footage of Neil Diamond’s performances, help contextualize the musical’s narrative while also offering visual cues for the different time periods.

A standout feature is the innovative use of the stage’s revolving platform. The rotating set pieces allow for smooth transitions between different scenes, effectively capturing the feeling of movement that defines Diamond’s career. This dynamic set, paired with the vivid lighting design by Donald Holder, adds an extra layer of excitement to the production. The lighting, particularly during the musical’s more intimate moments, is used to create an emotional atmosphere that resonates with the audience.