"Sweet Caroline" holds a special place in many hearts. It's a song that transcends various occasions, from ballgames to weddings and bars. For me, it's even more significant as my namesake song. I can envision it being played at my funeral, and I'd be at peace.

Neil Diamond's Musical Genesis

Years ago, witnessing Neil Diamond perform at a sold-out Madison Square Garden was a life-changing moment. I became an avid fan. However, it was only on Tuesday night at Broadway at the National's presentation of "A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical" that I discovered the story behind "Sweet Caroline". He wrote this iconic song in a mere half-hour, in deep despair, in a motel room in Memphis after parting ways with his first wife. Under a sleazy contract with Bang Records, he was pressured to create three songs. The name "Caroline" caught his eye on an old magazine cover, and with two unexpected chords, his musical legacy was born.

This musical gives a comprehensive overview of Diamond's life, from his lonely childhood in Flatbush, Brooklyn (the inspiration for "America"), to his breakthrough moment at the famous Brill Building with "I'm a Believer" performed by The Monkeys. He went on to become one of the most popular recording and performing artists in the world, even surpassing Elvis in box office draws.

The Therapy Session in the Musical

The framing of "A Beautiful Noise" is a unique therapy session between the aging and ailing Neil Diamond (portrayed by the spirited Robert Westenberg) and his psychologist (Lisa Reneé Pitts). Through his songbook, they peel back the layers of his depression, revealing the loneliness and despair that have shaped his life.

Nick Fradiani, the 2015 winner of American Idol, takes on the role of the younger Diamond. His voice, described as "gravel wrapped in velvet", soars as he brings the character to life. In the first act, he brings the house down with the all-cast rendition of "Sweet Caroline", leaving the audience in awe.

Musical Highlights and Reveals

The musical offers numerous musical gems. "Kentucky Woman" showcases Diamond's musical grit and Fradiani's range. The duet of "You Don't Bring Me Flowers" with his second wife, played by Hannah Jewel Kohn with a scene-stealing voice and stage presence, adds a touch of emotion.

In the poignant end scene, the older Neil Diamond has a therapy breakthrough moment. Realizing he will never perform again, he shares his feelings in a faded, soulful voice with the words "I Am...I Said". It's a beautiful noise that keeps the wolves of loneliness and despair at bay and brings us together in a unique way.

After the play officially ended, there were two encores, including an all-cast, all-audience sing-along to "Sweet Caroline", with the familiar "bum bum bum" echoing through the air.

The Musical's End and Beyond

"A Beautiful Noise" doesn't simply end. The band, under the direction of conductor/keyboardist James Olmstead, gave a knockout performance, rocking all night. It's a fitting end to an extraordinary musical journey that began with "Sweet Caroline".

The North American tour of "A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical" runs through December 8, 2024, at the National Theatre. Tickets ($75–$245) are available online, at the box office, or by calling (202) 628-6161. You can also enter the Digital Lottery for a chance to purchase $29 tickets. The cast and creative credits for the touring production are available here.

During these challenging times, masks are strongly recommended but not required for all ticket holders. For full COVID protocol, go here.

Running Time: Two and a half hours with a 15-minute intermission.