Norris Center for the Performing Arts to Present THE PRODUCERS, 9/20-10/6

The Norris Center for the Performing Arts presents Mel Brooks' outrageously funny smash hit musical, "The Producers," September 20 - October 6. Based on the classic film of the same name, the irreverent, zany show is one of the most popular musicals in Broadway history, winning a record twelve Tony Awards, including Best Musical.

"The Producers" follows the hilarious adventures of washed-up Broadway producer Max Bialystock and his mild-mannered accountant Leo Bloom, as they scheme to get rich by overselling interests in what is sure to be the most notorious flop in the history of show business. They find the worst play ever written, hire a lead actor and director with no talent, and then wait for the bad reviews. But things go awry when the show becomes a huge hit. With the uproarious show within a show, "Springtime for Hitler," "The Producers" skewers the absurdities of show business even as it delivers a heartfelt tale of the friendship that develops between the two would-be con artists.

"The Producers" features a book by comic genius Mel Brooks and Thomas Meehan (Hairspray), and music and lyrics by Mel Brooks. catchy score includes such showstoppers as "I Wanna Be A Producer," "When You Got It, Flaunt It," and the infamous "Springtime for Hitler."

The original production opened in 2001, starring Nathan Lane and Matthew Broderick, and immediately became a Broadway phenomenon. Today, "The Producers" still holds the distinction of winning more Tony awards than any other show in history. The musical ran on Broadway for six years, breaking all box office records.

The Norris Theatre production features a 15-piece orchestra and a cast of 22 actors. It is produced by James Gruessing and directed and choreographed by Mathhew J. Vargo, with musical direction by Daniel Thomas. Principal cast members include Nick Santa Maria (Max Bialystock), Marc Baron Ginsburg (Leo Bloom), Elaine Hayhurst (Ulla), Ken Prescott (Roger DeBris), Jon Wailin (Carmen Ghia) and James Gruessing (Franz Liebkind).

Performance times for the September 20 - October 6 run of "The Producers" are 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. on Sundays. Tickets are $45 for adults and $25 for children, and discounted group tickets are available. The show contains mature humor and adult language and is not recommended for children under 12 years. For more information or to purchase tickets visit www.norriscenter.com or call (310) 544-0403. The Norris Theatre is located at 27570 Norris Center Drive in Rolling Hills Estates. Free parking is available adjacent to the theatre, and the facility is wheelchair accessible.

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