Award-winning actress Lisa Reneé Pitts is no stranger to the stage or screen, but her current role in A Beautiful Noise, the Neil Diamond Musical, is a homecoming of sorts—one filled with heart, healing, and a new layer of artistry.
Pitts, who portrays “The Doctor”—Neil Diamond’s therapist—is a veteran of the performing arts. Her extensive career spans Broadway (Sweat), Off-Broadway (The Old Settler alongside Leslie Uggams), regional theatre (A Raisin in the Sun, Intimate Apparel, Doubt, and many others), and the screen (Straight Outta Compton as Verna Griffin, Dr. Dre’s mother; The Stand on Paramount+). Her commanding presence and dynamic emotional range are well-matched to the intimate, revealing scenes she shares in the show with the actor playing Neil.
“This is the first musical I’ve been in for over 20 years,” Lisa shares. “It’s a new adventure. And what a blessing it’s been.”
Though billed as a musical extravaganza with glitz, hits, and high energy, Lisa was drawn to the show’s emotional core—a story of self-discovery and healing told through the lens of therapy. “At its heart, it’s two people in a black box theater, trying to help one another,” she says. “It’s deeply intimate.”
Her character is based on Neil Diamond’s real-life therapist, who worked with him for many years. Lisa uses motivational interviewing techniques in the role, encouraging Diamond’s character to reflect and speak openly. “The most powerful thing I do on stage is listen,” she notes. “That’s the hardest thing for an actor to do—just be present, focused, and silent. But that’s where the healing happens.”
Lisa represents the role with pride, especially as a Black woman portraying a high-caliber mental health professional. “There are not many people of color shown in the field of mental health, especially at this level,” she says. “But we are here. We are leaders. And I stand strong and proud—not just for the African American community, but for all communities.”
Audience reactions are the most rewarding part of the experience for her. “At one point, Neil Diamond was bigger than Elvis. You see people of all ages moved to tears, dancing, reliving memories. That connection never gets old.”
Born in Brooklyn like Neil himself and raised in a tight-knit, supportive family, Lisa celebrated her recent birthday in Columbus, Ohio, surrounded by loved ones. A proud Taurus—known for creativity and strength—she’s grounded in her purpose. A graduate of Rutgers University’s Mason Gross School of the Arts, she knew early on she was destined to perform.
Lisa is also an award-winning audiobook narrator with more than 200 titles to her name across genres—from YA to Sci-Fi to Social Justice—and a ministry leader, mentor, and motivational speaker.
As for what’s next? Lisa is currently in negotiations for international dates of A Beautiful Noise following the conclusion of the U.S. tour this September. She’s also auditioning for television and film projects, exploring this new season of visibility.
“I’m at a new stage in my career where people are getting to know my work. I’d love to have a mentor like Viola Davis—someone who has climbed and persevered despite the obstacles. As I step into more high-profile projects, I’m learning how to navigate the next level.”
To young performers of color dreaming of Broadway, her advice is clear: “Study your craft. Fame and money might come, but what matters is preparation. Love the work. Stay focused. And when the door opens, walk through it ready. All your dreams will come true if you’re doing what you love.”
Victory, indeed.
The Neil Diamond Musical: A Beautiful Noise is playing at The San Diego Civic Theatre From May 29 through Sunday, June 1 for tickets www.broadwaysd.com
Learn more at LisaReneePitts.com