Guilford’s Nick Fradiani recently announced his promotion from alternate to lead in Broadway’s “A Beautiful Noise.” Last year the “American Idol” winner made his Broadway debut playing an alternate for the younger version of Neil Diamond in the musical based on Diamond’s life and career. As an alternate for the character of "Neil - Then," he performed the role once a week and whenever the lead actor was unable to take the stage.

Now, Fradiani has moved up from playing the alternate to claiming the lead as of Oct. 31. “Neil Diamond’s music was a huge part of my childhood. I grew up with my father performing his songs, and even taking me to see Neil as my first concert. To have the opportunity to take over the role of Neil Diamond – Then in ‘A Beautiful Noise’ on Broadway is truly an honor" he said.