Introduction to A Beautiful Noise
The tour choreographer Yasmine Lee has written a phenomenal piece for the Neil Diamond musical "A Beautiful Noise", which captures the energetic buzz of the show. "A Beautiful Noise" is currently playing at the Pantesis Theater in Hollywood and follows Neil Diamond’s journey from a young boy in Brooklyn to a rock icon. The show features all of Diamond’s hits, including "America", "Forever in Blue Jeans", and "Sweet Caroline", which are woven throughout the story.
The Touring Line-Up
The touring line-up includes Robert Westenberg as Neil Diamond, Hannah Jewel Kohn as Marcia Murphey, and Lisa Reneé Pitts as a doctor. According to Lee, the company has a great dynamic, which enables the choreography to be liberating and dazzling when it needs to be. Lee adds that the company is committed to telling the story and bringing it to life every night.
Keeping the Show Fresh
Lee spoke about how the show remains fresh and exciting, even after opening on Broadway in 2022 and now being on tour. She attributes this to excellent casting, with a company of young actors who are committed to doing good work and keeping the show fresh for themselves and the audience. Lee also has two dance captains in the line-up who understand the work from the inside and can make adjustments when needed.
Adapting the Show to Different Venues
When asked about adapting the show to different venues, such as the Pantesis Theater in Hollywood and upcoming shows in San Francisco, Lee explained that there are technical adjustments that need to be made. These adjustments include changes to the audience’s perspective and lines of vision. For example, in the song "America", there is an entrance where Lee has placed the Statue of Liberty, and the company looks out into the distance, representing the statue. Lee works with the ensemble to make small shifts to the choreography to ensure that the show works in each new venue.
Working with the Ensemble
Lee works closely with the ensemble to adapt the show to different venues and to keep the show fresh. She visits the company every five to eight weeks to check in and make adjustments as needed. Lee believes that it’s essential to keep the show grounded and not to push too hard into the audience, especially in bigger houses. Instead, she wants the audience to come to the show, to be drawn in by the music and the story.
Making Changes to the Show
When it comes to making changes to the show, Lee explains that these usually occur in the music department. If there are changes to the orchestrations or arrangements, the choreography and movement will react to these changes. Lee also believes that it’s essential to be aware of the audience’s expectations, but not to get too caught up in trying to meet them. Instead, she focuses on telling the story and bringing the music to life.
Pressure and Challenges
Lee was asked if there is more pressure on compiling numbers for an ensemble piece or in quieter moments. She believes that it’s a case-by-case scenario and that both have their challenges. However, Lee has a personal affinity for ensemble work and loves building a company and finding the voice of the ensemble.
A Favorite Number
When asked if there is a number in the show that she is particularly proud of, Lee mentions "Forever in Blue Jeans". This number is a moment in Marcia Murphy’s life, where the ensemble comes on stage, representing the "noise" in Neil’s head. Lee thinks it’s a small but successful jump, and it works beautifully every night. Another favorite is the "Stadium" Medley, which is a fan favorite and a company favorite. It’s a high-energy moment in the show where Neil is in concert, and the dancers are performing at their best.
