Jerome Lawrence
Jerome Lawrence
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Full Name and Common Aliases
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Jerome Lawrence was born on April 24, 1915, in Cleveland, Ohio. He is often associated with his writing partner Robert E. Lee.
Birth and Death Dates
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Born: April 24, 1915
Died: March 30, 2004 (age 88)
Nationality and Profession(s)
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Lawrence was an American playwright, best known for co-writing the classic play "Inherit the Wind" with Robert E. Lee.
Early Life and Background
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Jerome Lawrence grew up in Cleveland's Slavic Village neighborhood. His early life was marked by a love of theatre and writing, which he nurtured through his teenage years. He attended local schools before enrolling at Western Reserve University (now Case Western Reserve University), where he studied English and drama.
Major Accomplishments
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Lawrence's most significant contribution to American literature is undoubtedly "Inherit the Wind." This play is an adaptation of the Scopes trial, which was a real-life court case in 1925. The case centered around the teaching of evolution in schools and sparked a national debate on creationism versus science.
"Inherit the Wind" premiered in 1955 at the Barbizon-Plaza Theatre in New York City. It ran for 722 performances and won numerous awards, including two Tony Awards for Best Play and Best Producer. The play's success can be attributed to its thought-provoking themes of free speech, intellectual freedom, and the importance of critical thinking.
Notable Works or Actions
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"Inherit the Wind" (1955): A classic play co-written with Robert E. Lee that dramatizes the Scopes trial.
"Auntie Mame" (1956): A Broadway musical written by Lawrence and Lee, based on Patrick Dennis' novel of the same name.
Impact and Legacy
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Lawrence's work has had a lasting impact on American theatre. "Inherit the Wind" continues to be widely performed today, with its themes still relevant in contemporary society. The play's exploration of intellectual freedom, tolerance, and the importance of critical thinking serves as a reminder of the power of literature to challenge societal norms.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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Jerome Lawrence is remembered for his contributions to American theatre and his commitment to exploring complex themes in his work. His legacy extends beyond "Inherit the Wind," which remains one of his most celebrated achievements. The playwright's dedication to intellectual freedom, critical thinking, and creative expression has left a lasting impact on literature and continues to inspire readers today.
As we reflect on Lawrence's life and work, it becomes clear that he played an important role in shaping American theatre. His legacy serves as a testament to the enduring power of art to challenge societal norms and spark meaningful conversations about the human experience.
Quotes by Jerome Lawrence
Jerome Lawrence's insights on:
If you’re going to make a musical, don’t cartoon it from the play. Make it better than the play. Have a reason for making it sing.
Our only competition in the theater is boredom, because if I’m bored with a play, if I’m revolted by a play on stage, with the Broadway prices, especially today, I’m going to walk out and not come back and pay that price again.
You must not demand the failure of your peers, because the more good things that are around in film, in television, in theater – why the better it is for all of us.
In no instance is there to be a musical or opera of Inherit the Wind because it doesn’t sing. It’s an intellectual play.
The whole point of writing is to have something in your gut or in your soul or in your mind that’s burning to be written.