A Conversation with Robert Westenberg: A Beautiful Noise
What a treat! GLAMoms had the opportunity to speak with Robert Westenberg, a Broadway actor currently performing in A Beautiful Noise. He shared his journey from Broadway to teaching, his family life, and what audiences can expect from the show.
A Beautiful Noise arrives at Wharton Center September 16–21, and Robert says he’s excited to visit. “I love college towns. Fall is my favorite season, so I’m looking forward to it,” he shares.
Being in this role every night is like free therapy for Robert, and he calls the opportunity a genuine blessing. About the show, he says, “Some people might dismiss it as just a Neil Diamond jukebox musical, but it’s so much more. It’s uplifting, moving, and for all ages.” He especially loves seeing audiences light up during Sweet Caroline, watching people of all ages dancing, singing, and enjoying the music.
A huge thank you to Wharton Center for making this conversation possible, GLAMoms is so grateful for the opportunity to share these incredible Broadway stories with our community!
A Warm Welcome to East Lansing!
Have you ever been to East Lansing or the Wharton Center?
No, I don’t think I have. I’ve done a few tours, but I haven’t been there.
You’ll be welcomed with open arms! East Lansing is buzzing this time of year, especially with Michigan State students:
I love college towns. Fall is my favorite season, so I’m looking forward to it.
Tell us about A Beautiful Noise. How did you return to Broadway?
After a national tour in 2004, we moved to Springfield, Missouri, for a break from New York and to raise our three kids. I started teaching, eventually chairing a department at a university and later coordinating the Musical Theater program at Missouri State University. When we moved to Colorado, I taught at the University of Colorado Boulder and even directed Titanic!
Jim Carnahan, a casting director I had worked with in New York, later invited me to audition for A Beautiful Noise. After a callback and some twists, I was offered the national tour, which is how I ended up here.
What Audiences Can Expect?
What do you hope audiences take away from seeing A Beautiful Noise?
It’s an uplifting show about identity, self-worth, and family. It’s about Neil discovering who he is through the people who define his life. The story resonates for all ages.
We have to ask! Who dances best to Sweet Caroline: kids, parents, grandparents, or you?
Absolutely the grandparents! When they let loose, it’s pure joy to watch.
What has surprised you most about stepping into Neil’s shoes?
Every night feels like free therapy. The show opens with me talking to a therapist, and as I relive Neil’s life—and my own—new memories surface every performance. It’s a fresh, immersive experience each night.
Do you have a favorite song to perform?
I enjoy Cherry Sherry and Solitary Man. One is introspective, the other celebratory, but both are incredible to perform.
Anything else audiences should know about A Beautiful Noise?
Sometimes people dismiss it as “just a Neil Diamond jukebox musical,” but it’s much more. Beautifully written and profoundly moving, even my daughter, who isn’t a Neil Diamond fan, said it was the best show she’s ever seen me in!
Thank you so much for your time, Robert, and thank you once again to Wharton Center for this opportunity! We are so excited to see this show!
⭐️Tickets are available to purchase HERE⭐️
Did you enjoy learning more about Robert Westenberg and A Beautiful Noise?
visit greaterlansingareamoms.com/wharton-center to reach more about a variety of Wharton Center features!
