Producer James Simon

James Simon didn’t start with plans to become a producer. His first involvement with theater was as a performer, like many who are drawn to the stage from an early age. He acted in school productions and camp shows throughout his childhood. Though his journey later took him through college and a radio career, he eventually found himself back where he felt most connected—within the world of theater.

Today, James L. Simon is an experienced Broadway producer with two Tony Award nominations and a growing list of credits that reach from New York City to the United Kingdom.

Born and raised in Bronxville, New York, James went on to study communications at Emerson College in Boston. After completing his studies, he worked in radio before relocating to New York City in the early 1990s to pursue acting full-time. Like many actors, he supported himself with various jobs; however, one of those jobs brought him behind the scenes of a Broadway production, shifting the course of his career.

That opportunity came with a revival of Damn Yankees, his first experience working on a Broadway production. Through that role, he witnessed the considerable coordination and effort required to bring a show to the stage. From that point forward, Producer James Simon began to take form. He stepped away from performing and into a role that allowed him to support productions from behind the scenes.

James discovered he had a talent for identifying projects with potential and assembling the teams needed to bring them to fruition. His combination of creative awareness and practical decision-making helped him establish a consistent presence in the theater business.

James L. Simon earned his first Tony nomination for Bells Are Ringing in the Best Revival of a Musical category. His second nomination came for Operation Mincemeat, which was recognized in the Best New Musical category. He also co-produced The Woman in Black Off-Broadway, which received the Best Play Revival award from the Off-Broadway Alliance. His producing work has expanded to London’s West End and several international festivals.

This year, James is preparing for the 2025 Edinburgh Fringe Festival, where he will produce The Marriage of Alice B. Toklas by Gertrude Stein. Additionally, he is co-producing a national tour of Dungeons & Dragons: Twenty Sided Tavern, a live, interactive show that combines gaming elements with traditional theater.

For James, the motivation to keep producing comes from a strong belief in the importance of storytelling. He values the large productions he’s helped bring to life, but also finds meaning in the smaller shows that may not receive as much attention. In interviews and articles, he has acknowledged the difficulty new talent faces in breaking into the theater world.

He continues to advocate for the importance of mentorship, increased funding, and support for those entering their careers. James currently serves on the board of Untitled Theater Company No. 61 and supports artist relief efforts through organizations like Artists Relief and DonorsChoose.

His contributions extend beyond the arts as well. He has volunteered with the New York Food Bank and Habitat for Humanity, donates blood regularly through the New York Blood Center, and contributes to causes such as the Legal Aid Society.

Producing a show involves more than selecting a script. It requires managing budgets, solving creative and logistical challenges, coordinating schedules, and facilitating travel arrangements. James L. Simon, the Producer, works steadily behind the scenes to make sure every element comes together. He sees value in the overlooked moments—the phone calls, the budget meetings, and the last-minute changes that help make a show run smoothly.

Even with many accomplishments, James approaches each project with a practical and grounded mindset. He avoids chasing trends and remains focused on long-term value and respectful collaboration.