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Q&A: N The Queen of Paris

Producer Ella Louise Allaire gives us a behind-the-scenes peek at the musical reimagining of Emile Zola's famous novel

By Lauren Gillett • October 1, 2014

Directed by Ella Louise Allaire and Martin Lord Ferguson (Book, Music & Lyrics)
Original concept by Ella Louise Allaire
Choreographed by Jean-Jaques Pillet

Montreal-based Monlove Productions announced last month that the world premiere of N The Queen of Paris will open at Toronto's Elgin Theatre in September 2015 (tickets on sale now). Based on the novel Nana by the French writer Emile Zola, the story is a rag to riches romance with glimpses into the backstage world of 19th century Parisian theatres and courtesans’ salons.

Following its world premiere in Toronto, the production will have its US premiere in Chicago at Broadyway in Chicago's Bank of America Theatre in November 2015, and will then open on Broadway in March 2016.

We caught up with the show's co-director Ella Louise Allaire to find out more about this updated take on a Parisian classic.

Theatromania: Tell us about N The Queen of Paris. What inspired this show?

ELA: The show was inspired by Emile Zola's famous novel Nana. As a student I was very interested in the series Les Rougon Macquart because of its intensity, and search for the truth.

Theatromania: How would you describe the production in a few sentences?

ELA: The production is spectacular because it digs into the history of Nana, creating a link between past and present day. N THE QUEEN OF PARIS weaves fashion and the history of 1880s Paris with modern day fabric and new technology.

Theatromania: Why is Emile Zola’s classic story Nana still relevant today?

ELA: I think the story is still relevant today because Nana is a modern woman. She raises her child alone with very little family support. She also makes her own decisions and is very free spirited. As well, she is considered a fashion icon.

Theatromania: Can you tell us anything about the show’s casting? Will the ensemble consist of international performers?

ELA: The show will include international performers, Tony and Grammy award-winning artists.

Theatromania: What has been the most exciting part of this process so far?

ELA: The most exciting part has been the enthusiastic response from the audience. People love the show because of its humour and emotion. We also had positive response from the Moët family, which includes some of greatest players in the industry.

Visit nthemusical.com for more information and to buy tickets.