James Simon didn’t begin his journey in theater to become a producer. Like many who are drawn to the stage, his first exposure came through performing. From a young age, he acted in school productions and at summer camp, gaining early experience as a performer. After exploring other paths, including time spent in college and radio, he eventually found himself back where he felt most connected—working in theater. Today, James L. Simon has established himself as a Broadway producer. He holds two Tony Award nominations and has a list of production credits that span from New York to the United Kingdom. James was born and raised in Bronxville, New York. He went on to study communications at Emerson College in Boston. Following his graduation, he worked in radio for several years. In the early 1990s, he decided to move to New York City to pursue acting full-time. Like many in the performing arts, he took on various side jobs to support himself. One of those jobs eventually led to his first backstage experience in theater. That opportunity came during a revival of Damn Yankees, where he gained firsthand insight into the level of detail and effort required to stage a Broadway production. From that experience onward, Producer James Simon began to emerge. Over time, he transitioned from acting to producing, finding a role that allowed him to contribute behind the scenes. James showed an ability to identify promising productions and build teams capable of bringing those ideas to life. His approach combined creative understanding with practical execution, helping him find his place within the Broadway landscape. James L. Simon earned his first Tony Award nomination for Bells Are Ringing in the Best Revival of a Musical category. More recently, he received another nomination 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 work has also been showcased in the West End of London and at various international festivals. In the coming season, James is preparing to bring The Marriage of Alice B. Toklas by Gertrude Stein to the 2025 Edinburgh Fringe Festival. At the same time, he is co-producing a national tour of Dungeons & Dragons: Twenty Sided Tavern in the United States—an interactive production that combines theatrical storytelling with live gaming. When asked what motivates him, James points to the power of stories. While he appreciates the success of larger productions, he also values smaller shows that may not receive as much attention. In interviews and written pieces, he has noted the challenges faced by new voices in the theater industry in gaining visibility and opportunities. He actively advocates for increased support for emerging talent. James serves on the board of Untitled Theater Company No. 61 and supports initiatives such as Artists Relief and DonorsChoose, which offer funding and resources to artists in need. Beyond the arts, James contributes to other causes. He has volunteered with the New York Food Bank and Habitat for Humanity, regularly donates blood through the New York Blood Bank, and supports organizations such as the Legal Aid Society. The role of a producer is complex, involving funding, scheduling, travel, and resolving creative or logistical issues. James L. Simon, the Producer, takes pride in managing the behind-the-scenes work that often goes unnoticed. He focuses on ensuring things run smoothly, usually working without recognition, and considers that an important part of his contribution. Even with a growing list of accomplishments, James remains practical and focused. He does not chase trends, but instead looks for projects that have staying power and offer meaningful content. As the theater landscape evolves, his steady approach helps ensure quality and consistency. James has more work ahead, though some of it has yet to be announced. What’s clear is that James Simon, the Producer, will continue to bring thoughtful, well-executed productions to the stage, remaining committed to the craft and to the people who make it possible.