In the late 1980s, Chazz Palminteri first performed his one-man show A Bronx Tale in Los Angeles. The show transferred to the now-closed Playhouse 91 Off-Broadway and quickly began to garner critical buzz. Among those who went to see it during its short run, was Robert De Niro.

He immediately recognized the potential for a screen adaptation and just a few years later, the show inspired the film of the same name. At the helm, was De Niro making his directorial debut.

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Source: http://www.playbill.com/