Jerome Lawrence

Easton Press Jerome Lawrence books

Inherit the Wind - signed modern classic - 2000

Writer Jerome Lawrence

Jerome Lawrence, born on July 14, 1915, in Cleveland, Ohio, was an esteemed American playwright and author best known for his collaborations with Robert E. Lee, with whom he co-wrote several highly acclaimed plays. Together, Lawrence and Lee created works that explored social and political themes with wit, intelligence, and humanity, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of American theater. Raised in Cleveland, Lawrence developed a passion for theater from a young age, participating in school productions and immersing himself in the world of drama. He attended Ohio State University, where he studied journalism and became involved in student theater, honing his skills as a writer and playwright.

After graduating from college, Lawrence began his career as a journalist, working for various newspapers and radio stations before turning his attention to playwriting full-time. In the late 1940s, he met Robert E. Lee, a fellow playwright and collaborator, and the two formed a creative partnership that would endure for decades. Lawrence and Lee's most famous collaboration was the play Inherit the Wind, which premiered on Broadway in 1955. Loosely based on the Scopes "Monkey" Trial of 1925, the play explores the tension between science and religion, freedom of thought, and the power of the individual to challenge societal norms. Inherit the Wind was a critical and commercial success, earning rave reviews and multiple awards, including the Tony Award for Best Play.

Following the success of Inherit the Wind, Lawrence and Lee continued to collaborate on a series of acclaimed plays, including Auntie Mame (1956), The Gang's All Here (1959), and First Monday in October (1978). Their works often tackled controversial subjects and explored the complexities of human nature with insight, humor, and compassion. In addition to his work as a playwright, Lawrence was also a passionate advocate for free expression and civil liberties, using his platform as a writer to address social and political issues. He was active in various political and social causes throughout his life, speaking out against censorship and advocating for the rights of artists and writers.

Jerome Lawrence passed away on February 29, 2004, at the age of 88, leaving behind a rich legacy of theatrical innovation and social commentary. His work continues to be celebrated and studied for its insight, wit, and enduring relevance, inspiring future generations of playwrights and theatergoers to engage with the world around them through the power of drama.