James Simon didn’t start his career with the intention of becoming a producer. Like many who fall in love with theater, his first experience with the stage was through performing. He acted in plays during his school years and at summer camps, developing a connection to live performance early on. Though he later explored other fields—college and a radio career—he eventually found his way back to theater, though this time behind the scenes.

Today, James L. Simon is a Broadway producer with two Tony Award nominations and a portfolio of work that stretches from Manhattan to the United Kingdom.

James was born and raised in Bronxville, New York. He studied communications at Emerson College in Boston, preparing for a career in media. After working in radio for several years, he moved to New York City in the early 1990s to pursue acting full-time. Like many actors in the city, James balanced performance work with side jobs. One of those jobs introduced him to theater production, and that experience led him down a different professional path.

His first hands-on experience with a Broadway production came during the revival of Damn Yankees. Through that role, he saw just how much work goes into making a show successful. From that point forward, Producer James Simon began to take shape. The process of coordinating the many moving parts of a theatrical production sparked his interest and led to a long-term shift in focus.

James developed an ability to spot projects with potential and bring together teams capable of executing a shared vision. His strength lies in balancing creative ambition with the practical realities of producing. Over time, he established a reputation for being consistent, thoughtful, and adept at managing the challenges of theater production.

James L. Simon earned his first Tony nomination for Bells Are Ringing in the Best Revival of a Musical category. His second nomination came with Operation Mincemeat, recognized for Best New Musical. He also co-produced The Woman in Black Off-Broadway, which received the Best Play Revival award from the Off-Broadway Alliance. His credits include work in London’s West End and at major theater festivals around the globe.

James is currently preparing to bring The Marriage of Alice B. Toklas by Gertrude Stein to the 2025 Edinburgh Fringe Festival. He is also co-producing a national tour of Dungeons & Dragons: Twenty Sided Tavern in the United States, an interactive production that combines live gaming and traditional theater elements.

When asked what keeps him producing, James often points to his belief in the power of stories. While he appreciates being part of well-known productions, he also values smaller, more intimate works that may not attract as much attention. In interviews and articles, he has noted how hard it can be for new voices to gain access in the theater industry.

He continues to support opportunities for emerging talent. James serves on the board of Untitled Theater Company No. 61 and donates to programs such as Artists Relief and Donors Choose. These platforms help artists at early stages of their careers gain visibility and support.

Outside the arts, James has volunteered with the New York Food Bank and Habitat for Humanity. He is also a regular blood donor through the New York Blood Bank and supports the Legal Aid Society, showing his broader commitment to service.

Producing involves far more than choosing scripts. It requires careful budgeting, coordination, conflict resolution, and planning for travel. James L. Simon, the Producer, remains deeply involved in all aspects of production. He finds value in the behind-the-scenes work—quiet tasks that ensure everything comes together on time.

Even with two Tony Award nominations and international credits, James stays focused on the work rather than recognition. He chooses projects based on substance, not trends, and strives to build environments where creativity can thrive.

Though some of his upcoming projects remain undisclosed, one thing is certain: James Simon, the Producer, continues to approach every production with care, dedication, and a deep respect for the process.