‘American Idol’ Winner Nick Fradiani is the New Neil Diamond in Broadway’s ‘A Beautiful Noise’
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American Idol winner Nick Fradiani is filling the boots of legendary musician Neil Diamond in Broadway’s A Beautiful Noise. He is taking over the role from original star Will Swenson.
Nick Fradiani Plays Neil Diamond in A Beautiful Noise Musical
The biomusical chronicles the life of Diamond through several of the top 40 hits in his catalogue. Particularly, the show features songs like “Crunchy Granola Suite,” “Cracklin Rosie,” “Song Sung Blue,” “Cherry, Cherry” and, of course, “Sweet Caroline.”
Swenson originated Diamond’s role (Then) during the pre-Broadway world premiere of the show at Boston’s Emerson Colonial Theatre in June 2022. Told through flashback, the theatrical story introduces Swenson as young Diamond alongside Mark Jacoby as current-aged Diamond in the theatrical story. Swenson had been with A Beautiful Noise through its transfer to Broadway which opened in December 2022.
Fradiani began taking over Diamond’s role on Tuesday, October 31. He previously served as the production’s alternate and understudy for the role. That served as his Broadway debut.
“Neil Diamond’s music was a huge part of my childhood,” he said in a statement. “I grew up with my father performing his songs, and even taking me to see Neil as my first concert.”
“To have the opportunity to take over the role…in A Beautiful Noise on Broadway is truly an honor,” he continued. “I have seen firsthand the love, passion and excitement the audience has brought to our theater over the past year, and I’m so lucky to continue being a part of this beautiful story.”
The cast of A Beautiful Noise also features Jacoby as Neil Diamond (Now), Shirine Babb as The Doctor, and Tony nominee Robyn Hurder as Marcia, along with Jessie Fisher, Michael McCormick, Tom Alan Robbins, and Bri Sudia.
Fans Express Support for His First Official Performance
On October 18, A Beautiful Noise‘s Instagram account shared a joint point with the American Idol winner to invite fans to dive in the Dress Like Neil Diamond Contest. The post laid down the mechanics for the challenge.
“Come dressed in diamonds, sparkles, or blue jeans because on Halloween we’re celebrating Nick Fradiani’s first official performance as our full-time “Neil Diamond – Then” with a “Dress Like Neil Diamond” contest!” the caption read.
Soon after seeing the post, fans expressed their views and excitement about the challenge in the comments. Furthermore, people also expressed their support for Fradiani in his Broadway debut.
“Can’t wait to see you now that you are the lead so happy for you Nick! So we’ll deserved!” a fan wrote.
“Go gett’em!!! So happy for you!!! Thanks for taking all your fans on your journey- it’s such a great ride!!” a user commented.
“Nick was amazing when we saw the show!!” another fan commented.
A Beautiful Noise: Neil Diamond Musical takes a look at the life of Rock & Roll Hall of Famer, then and now, accompanied by hits from his decades-long career in popular music. Interestingly, all songs are written or co-written by Neil Diamond. Tony winner Michael Mayer is the director of the musical.
