THE FARTISTE to Play Sofia's Downstairs Beginning Tonight

THE FARTISTE, a new musical comedy, will open off-Broadway at Sofia's Downstairs, (221 West 46th Street) on Thursday, October 27th with previews to begin on Sunday, October 9th (3 pm).

With book by Charlie Schulman and music and lyrics by Michael Roberts, THE FARTISTE first was performed at the NYC International Fringe Festival in 2006 where it received the award of Outstanding Musical. Based on an actual true story, THE FARTISTE is about Joseph Pujol, whose musical derriere propelled him to being the highest-paid performer at the Moulin Rouge in 1890's Paris. Fun for all ages and complete with Can-Can dancers, the cast will include Nick Wyman ("Catch Me If You Can") , Lindsay Roginski ("Chicago") , Herndon Lackey ("LoveMusik"), Analisa Leaming, Rachel Kopf and sound effects artist extraordinaire Steven Scott. John Gould Rubin directs and choreography is by Richard Move. Set design is by Andrea Mincic and costumes by Kristina Makowski. The Schulberts and Robert Dragotta are producing with Stephen Hanks and Diane Proctor as co-producers.

Performance schedule is as follows: Thursdays at 7:30 pm; Fridays at 8:00 pm; Saturdays at 3:00 and 8:00 pm and Sundays at 3:00 pm. A French buffet will be served with doors opening one hour prior to the performances for lunch/dinner. Tickets are priced at $79.00 (which includes dinner) and $65.00 for show only.

Directed by John Gould Rubin and choreographed by Richard Move.

Tickets are available by phone at (212) 947-9300 from 10 am to 6 pm and through www.thefartiste.com or www.entertainmentevents.com

THE FARTISTE is a musical comedy for all from ages 6 to 99!

Le Petomane was the stage name of the French flatulist (professional farter) and entertainer Joseph Pujol (1857-1945). He was famous for his remarkable control of the abdominal muscles, which enabled him to seem to fart at will. It was a common misconception that he actually passed gas as part of his stage performance. Rather, Pujol was able to "inhale" or move air into his body and then release it.

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