Will Swenson to depart 'A Beautiful Noise' on Broadway; Nick Fradiani to star

The actor originated the role of a young Neil Diamond in this musical at the Broadhurst Theatre about the Grammy Award-winning musician's life and career.

UPDATE: Nick Fradiani, who currently plays Neil Diamond — Then for one performance a week as Swenson's alternate, will step into the role full-time after Swenson's departure.

Farewell, so long, goodbye. Will Swenson will play his final performance in A Beautiful Noise, The Neil Diamond Musical on Broadway on October 29.

Swenson currently leads the show at the Broadhurst Theatre as Neil Diamond - Then, a younger version of the singer-songwriter as an up-and-coming musician. The show follows Diamond as he looks back on his life and career, and his greatest hits propel the story of how he went from a poor Brooklyn kid to an award-winning, globally bestselling musician.

Swenson has played Diamond since A Beautiful Noise opened in November 2022. The current cast, most of whom are also original members, also includes Mark Jacoby as Neil Diamond – Now, Robyn Hurder as Marcia, Shirine Babb as Doctor, Jessie Fisher as Jaye Posner, Michael McCormick as Fred Weintraub/ Tommy O’Rourke, Tom Alan Robbins as Bert Berns/Kieve Diamond, and Bri Sudia as Ellie Greenwich/Rose Diamond.

Replacement casting for Swenson has yet to be announced. Nick Fradiani currently serves as Swenson's alternate, playing Neil Diamond - Then for one performance a week; he will continue in this role.

Photo credit: Will Swenson and the cast of A Beautiful Noise. (Photo by Julieta Cervantes)