There is something wonderfully nostalgic about sitting in a theatre surrounded by the music of Neil Diamond, but A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical offers far more than a celebration of his greatest hits. Behind the familiar songs is a surprisingly moving story about ambition, insecurity, love, loss and the emotional cost of a life spent chasing success.

The musical opens with an older Neil Diamond, played with considerable depth by Terence Crawford, reluctantly sitting in therapy. His doctor, played by Monica Sayers, encourages him to look back on his life by working through a book containing the lyrics to his many songs. It is an effective framing device, allowing the story to move between Diamond in the present and his younger self, played by visiting Broadway star Will Swenson.

Swenson is undoubtedly the standout. Rather than attempting a simple impersonation, he captures Diamond’s mannerisms, humour and distinctive gravelly voice while giving the character a personality of his own. His transformation from an anxious, self-doubting young songwriter into a confident international performer is particularly compelling. Vocally, he is superb, and the moments when the character steps fully into the performer Diamond became are exhilarating.

The story begins with a young Diamond working tirelessly as a songwriter in New York’s Tin Pan Alley, struggling for his big break. His encounter with record producer Ellie Greenwich, warmly played by Hannah Fredericksen, becomes an important turning point. She recognises something in him that he cannot yet see in himself and encourages him to step out from behind the scenes and perform.

From there, the musical explores Diamond’s extraordinary rise, his relationships and marriages, the pressures of touring and the increasingly demanding world that comes with enormous success. Ashleigh Rubenach is wonderful as Marcia Murphey, bringing warmth, charisma and an impressive vocal performance to the role. Her renditions of Song Sung Blue, You Don’t Bring Me Flowers and Forever in Blue Jeans are among the show’s highlights.

Alana Tranter brings a touching vulnerability to Jaye Posner, Diamond’s first wife, while Hannah Fredericksen also impresses in her contrasting role as Diamond’s mother, Rose. Monica Sayers provides a beautifully understated performance as the doctor, patiently drawing out the parts of Diamond’s story he would rather leave buried.

What makes the production particularly effective is that the songs are not simply inserted as a greatest-hits concert. They are woven into Diamond’s memories and relationships, often revealing something about what he is feeling when words alone cannot. With 29 songs included, there is certainly no shortage of favourites, from Sweet Caroline, Cracklin’ Rosieand America to Love on the Rocks, Cherry, Cherry, I Am… I Said and You Don’t Bring Me Flowers.

The live band, led by musical director Nigel Ubrihien, is fantastic, and hearing these songs performed with such energy in the theatre is a genuine joy. The ensemble, known as the “A Beautiful Noise” ensemble, also adds beautifully polished vocals and movement throughout the production. Steven Hoggett’s choreography is restrained rather than overly elaborate, allowing the music and storytelling to remain at the centre.

Visually, the production is equally impressive. David Rockwell’s scenic design, combined with Kevin Adams’ lighting, creates an adaptable world that shifts effortlessly between Diamond’s memories, intimate moments and spectacular concert sequences. Emilio Sosa’s costumes chart Diamond’s journey from struggling songwriter to international superstar, culminating in some particularly dazzling costume changes in the second act.

The most powerful part of the musical, however, comes when the therapy sessions finally reveal why Diamond has carried such deep anxiety and emotional turmoil throughout his life. What initially appears to be simply a story about a legendary performer gradually becomes something much more personal. The final revelations give greater meaning to everything that has come before, and they are genuinely moving.

There are moments when returning to the therapy room slows the momentum of the story, but the payoff is worthwhile. By the time the final pieces fall into place, the audience has gained a much deeper understanding of the man behind the music.

And, of course, there is the music. For fans of Neil Diamond, this is a wonderful opportunity to hear some of his most beloved songs performed live, but even those who aren’t die-hard fans will find plenty to enjoy. The production manages to celebrate the extraordinary career of one of the world’s most successful singer-songwriters while still allowing room for vulnerability and humanity.

A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical is ultimately a heartfelt, entertaining and beautifully performed production. Will Swenson is exceptional, the supporting cast is terrific, the musicianship is first-rate and the combination of nostalgia and emotional storytelling makes for an engaging night at the theatre.

And I might add Incidentally, while no actor plays Katie in the show, to wide applause on opening night, the real Katie flew over from the US and appeared on stage at the curtain call.

For anyone who grew up with Neil Diamond’s music — or simply appreciates a great musical filled with memorable songs — A Beautiful Noise is well worth seeing.

A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical is on at Princess Theatre in Melbourne until 25th October, 2026. For tickets or more information visit theneildiamondmusical.com.au

X Steph

Photos by Jeff Busby