James A. Rocco
Producing &
Artistic Leadership
Making things happen. Making room for people.
Bringing ambitious work to life—and bringing people together around it. James A. Rocco’s producing work spans new musicals, international collaborations, concerts, recordings, and performing arts institutions. His experience connects artistic vision with the practical work of building teams, developing projects, and welcoming audiences.
Where It Began
At seventeen, James produced and directed a revival of Henry, Sweet Henry at New York’s Mercer Arts Center, a groundbreaking hub of downtown theatre and music. He was inside when the building collapsed. The production continued at the Lambs Club Theatre—an early lesson in resilience, resourcefulness, and the determination to keep creating.That experience helped shape the producer he became: someone who brings people together around a vision and finds a way forward.
Music, Collaboration & the Road
For seven years, Rocco produced the vocal groups Citylights, The Populaires, and Ginger Ale (the sound of American Pop), bringing together live performance, recording, and touring. Working closely with Albert Evans and fellow artists, he developed the creative partnerships and practical experience that would shape his later work in theatrical producing and artistic leadership.
Thirty Saints Productions
Founded by Rocco in 2012, Thirty Saints Productions brings together his work as a producer, creator, and artistic collaborator. Its projects encompass new musical development, international productions, concert experiences, and recordings.
Selected projects include:
The Keeners — Produced New York developmental workshop.
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat — Co-produced the Tokyo production with Broadway Asia.
The Songbook Series — Created concert experiences combining researched storytelling, humor, and live performance.
Cast Recordings — Produced recordings of A Country Christmas Carol, Yankee Doodle Dandy, and Nite Club Confidential
There Are No Words — Led the artistic team for the U.S. Air Force’s 9/11 tribute video.
Through Thirty Saints Music Licensing, Rocco helps theatrical creators and producers secure song permissions for the stage, with projects including The Marvelous Wonderettes and the new musical Rock On!, currently in development. He also developed Music Licensing 101, a practical workbook guiding creators through the specifics of licensing music for theatrical productions.
Artistic Leadership
Ordway Center for the Performing Arts
Vice President of Programming & Producing Artistic Director
Rocco guided programming and producing across three venues, managed an annual theatrical budget of $14–16 million, and helped shape the institution’s artistic direction. His work encompassed original productions, touring Broadway, concerts, dance, new work, and partnerships connecting artists with the community.
The 5th Avenue Theatre — Seattle
Associate Producer
His work has included touring Broadway and new musical development, with responsibilities spanning artistic curation, budgeting, negotiations, and settlements. Touring presentations have included Suffs, Come From Away, Clue, and Spamalot.
Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma
Producing Artistic Director
Rocco led artistic and administrative operations, expanded programming and community outreach, and commissioned and produced A Country Christmas Carol. He also produced Broadway Sings for the Heartland, bringing together artists including Ed Harris, Sandy Duncan, and Ben Vereen for a benefit supporting victims of the Oklahoma City bombing.
Stage One — Wichita
Interim Artistic Director
At a theatre dedicated to new musicals and rediscovered works, Rocco combined producing and artistic leadership with season planning and educational programming, including the Words & Music series.
Developing Artists. Expanding Opportunity.
Creating opportunities for artists has been central to Rocco’s leadership. At the Ordway, his work included collaboration with Teatro del Pueblo and the West Side Heights project, bringing together artist development, community engagement, and mentorship.
Through workshops, educational programs, and direct collaboration, he has helped emerging artists build confidence, experience, and professional connections.
Selected Investments
Come From Away
Magic Mike Live
Investing Partner — Broadway, Toronto, North American tour, and Australia.
Investing Partner — London.
Contact: info@thirtysaintsproductions.com