If you’re a Neil Diamond Fan or know of many of his chart hitting hits this musical is for you. A Beautiful Noise masterly done in a way that honors the legacy and accomplishments over the years. From a therapy session we go on one musical ride through melody and craft.
What expect before seeing A Beautiful Noise?
You’re going to want to get there in enough time to find your parking. This theatre has to be one of the weirdest to park. For instance most on the street parking doesn’t start until 630pm at least during the week. So if you’re going be mindful of that. There are more nearby and it may be the best suggestion to use one of them. I spent almost 20 minutes looking for non lot parking. It was pouring rain the night I went but I was successful.
Also you can take drinks purchased at the theatre inside. So if you’re looking for concessions make time to get them. The theatre is easy to navigate however the best advice is your seating. The seats are a little more narrow here. So choose wisely.
Therapy leads to a musical tribute
For me being the mental health queen that I am loved the approach of showing Neil Diamond (now) played by Robert Westenberg. This true story which was crafted by Neil Diamond himself shows his vulnerability. When his therapist, played by Lisa Reneé Pitts asked him his favorite song he answered it in a way most artist do. A favorite song is determined by the way in which it’s written or what was happening in their life at the time of the writing.
Musical Highs no Lows
The singing in this masterpiece is phenomenal. Not to mention it’s not just a bunch of singers on a stage. They transform themselves back into this musical memoir. The way that each song rivets through the theatre is unlike anything I’ve seen. I appreciate the care in which the songs come alive. Audience members do their best to let the professionals handle it but it’s hard not to sing along.
Neil Diamond stamp of approval
What I love is instead of a bunch of people coming together to sing these songs, they were crafted with the singers stamp of approval. A Beautiful Noise is a collaborative effort that Neil himself had a hand it. For me that speaks volumes. This allows the singer to have say in how legacy is shown. Although many artists don’t mind being honored musically for their talents, this is with Neil at the forefront.
Will the Infamous song be sung?
Sweet Caroline is one of the many classics that you will hear. So if you’re a Neil Diamond fan take heart that the infamous song will be sung and it will be the biggest treat of them all. Every character that you see come alive is well versed and gives off the best mannerisms of Neil Diamond. I was pleasantly surprised about their adaptation to the singer.
Before the show
I was invited to a personal celebration before the show. It included a tribute to Joseph Ciccimaro. Joseph has been apart of the theater for decades. They honored him for his musical and community contributions. It was great to see. His energy was engaging. In addition we enjoyed some drinks and bites as a pre-show celebration.
A special thank you to Forrest Theatre located at 1114 Walnut Street for having me. Thank you to Carole Morganti of CJM and Bryan Buttler Media Productions for having me. Make sure you see A Beautiful Noise as it’s in production until December 22nd. Tickets are available.
