Emperor Norton, the Musical

Based on a true story, businessman Joshua Norton lost a fortune, went mad and proclaimed himself “Emperor of the United States and Protector of Mexico” in post-Gold Rush San Francisco. Thanks to the free-wheeling spirit of the Barbary Coast, Emperor Norton went on to print his own money, conceive the Bay Bridge, propose to the Queen of England, befriend Mark Twain, consort with famed performers Lola Montez and Lotta Crabtree, and become the most beloved San Franciscan of the 19th Century.

Emperor Norton, the Musical has a book by Kim Ohanneson, with lyrics and music by Marty Axelrod. David Stein directs, with Marty Axelrod as musical director.