Three years ago I started a petition in an attempt to stop the casting of James Barbour, a convicted child sex offender, as the Phantom on Broadway. This was unsuccessful. However, I truly had faith that after the uproar his contract would not be renewed. Unfortunately he is still playing the role today. 

 James Barbour negotiated a plea bargain and served 60 days in jail along with three years probation, after pleading guilty to two counts of endangering the welfare of a child. This conviction was in relation to his inappropriate behaviour towards a 15 year old child who he invited backstage during the 2001 Broadway production of Jane Eyre. 

 In light of recent revelations in other areas of the entertainment industry, it is time for the world of theatre to take a stand against people such as James Barbour.