Swenson originated the role in the pre-Broadway world premiere of the show at Boston's Emerson Colonial Theatre in June 2022. In the show, Swenson plays a younger version of the singer, called Neil Diamond - Then (with Mark Jacoby as Neil Diamond (Now), who is looking back on his life). A Beautiful Noise transferred to Broadway, with Will as the young Grammy-winning singer-songwriter, for the 2022–23 season, with previews beginning November 2, 2022 and an official opening December 4.
“It’s been the thrill of a lifetime to get to stand in Neil’s shoes,” said Swenson in a statement. “It’s been such an incredible honor to get to know Neil, to tell his powerful story, and bring his amazing songs to Broadway audiences every night. I’m immensely proud of the moving, beautiful show we made. I will miss it very much.”
The bio musical takes a look at the life of the Grammy-winning Rock & Roll Hall of Famer, then and now, accompanied by hits from his decades-long career in popular music. All songs are written or co-written by Neil Diamond. Tony winner Michael Mayer directs.
Lupita Nyong'o, Katrina Lenk, Jelani Alladin, and more were on hand to celebrate the October 31 opening night of Michael R. Jackson and Anna K. Jacobs' new musical.