The Count of Monte Cristo

Benefiting: UJA of New York
Produced by Provident Productions
Book, Music & Lyrics by James Behr
Composed & Arranged & Musically Directed by James Behr

“The Count of Monte Cristo, a musical based upon the famed Alexandre Dumas novel, now comes to the Broadway stage! Come see the beloved and thrilling story of love, revenge and redemption in this prize-winning and critically acclaimed new musical.”

Show Times:

• Tue 6/12/12 – 6:30pm
• Sat 6/16/12 – 8:30pm
• Sun 6/17/12 – 4:00pm
• Mon 6/18/12 – 7:00pm
• Thu 6/21/12 – 9:00pm
• Sat 6/23/12 – 3:30pm

Answers by James Behr

Karen Tortora-Lee’s Question
How did you come up with the title for your show?
James: The title is based upon the book, “The Count of Monte Cristo” by Alexandre Dumas, which the musical is adapted from.

Diánna Martin’s Question
If you were going to invite 5 people (from the past or present) to see your show – who would you invite … and why?
James: Richard Rodgers – because I admire his music so much

Franklin Delano Roosevelt – Because I admire what he accomplished as President

Winston Churchill – because I admire his determination and contributions to history.

Moses – Because he is such huge factor in religion and morality.

Philip J. Smith, Chairman, Co-CEO, The Shubert Organization – because I would like to have my musical produced.

Antonio Minino’s Question
What is the biggest sacrifice you’ve made for your art and was it worth it?
James: I gave up a very lucrative profession to do what I am doing, and have put thousands of hours of my time and talent into what I’m trying to accomplish as an artist. What it worth it? I like creating, but I am still awaiting the opportunity to be taken seriously and given a fair chance to be seen.

Geoffrey Paddy Johnson’s Question
Was there any unexpected discovery made during the development of this production and can you share it with us?
James: Well, I knew it was going to be very difficult to get the attention of the entertainment industry, but even so, I did not expect it to be as challenging as it has been to get producers to communicate and be open-minded to a new work based upon such a famous story.

Michelle Augello-Page’s Question
What do you hope the audience receives from the experience of seeing this show?
James: A sense that there are new musical, like The Count of Monte Cristo that respect the great traditions of Broadway and deserve to get attention and help from those in the industry capable of making things happen. There is a sad tendency now to support the rich and famous and ignore new talent simply because they are unknown.

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Planet Connections runs from May 30 – June 24 at The Bleecker Street Theater located at 45 Bleecker Street, New York, NY.  To purchase tickets to this or any of the shows click here.

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