Arthur Laurents: The Visionary Behind Timeless Broadway Classics
A Legendary Playwright, Director, and Screenwriter
Arthur Laurents is renowned for crafting some of the most iconic and enduring works in American theatre and cinema. With a career spanning seven decades, he left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment, earning numerous accolades, including two Tony Awards, a Drama Desk Award, and nominations for two Academy Awards, two BAFTA Awards, and a Golden Globe Award.
The Early Years: A Brooklynite with a Passion for Storytelling
Born Arthur Levine on July 14, 1917, in Brooklyn, New York, Laurents grew up in a middle-class Jewish family. His father was a lawyer, and his mother, a schoolteacher, who gave up her career after marriage. Laurents' early life was marked by a strong cultural heritage, with his paternal grandparents being Orthodox Jews and his maternal grandparents being atheists. His upbringing had a profound impact on his work, influencing his writing and shaping his unique perspective.
Breaking into the World of Entertainment
After graduating from Erasmus Hall High School, Laurents began writing scripts for radio shows, followed by training films for the U.S. Army during World War II. This early experience laid the foundation for his future success, as he transitioned to writing for Broadway. His breakthrough came with the 1957 musical
West Side Story, a collaboration with
Leonard Bernstein and
Stephen Sondheim that redefined the genre. This was followed by
Gypsy (1959) and
Hallelujah, Baby! (1967), the latter earning him a Tony Award for Best Musical.
A Distinguished Career in Hollywood
Laurents' talent extended beyond the stage, as he made a significant impact on the film industry. He wrote screenplays for notable directors, including
Alfred Hitchcock (
Rope, 1948) and
Sydney Pollack (
The Way We Were, 1973). His work on
The Turning Point (1977) earned him two Academy Award nominations for Best Picture and Best Original Screenplay.
DIRECTORIAL DEBUT AND LATER WORKS
In 1983, Laurents made his directorial debut with the musical
La Cage aux Folles, winning the Tony Award for Best Direction of a Musical. This was followed by his work on
Jolson Sings Again (1949) and
The Madwoman of Chaillot (1969).
Awards and Legacy
Throughout his illustrious career, Laurents received numerous accolades, including:
- Two Tony Awards
- Drama Desk Award
- Nominations for two Academy Awards, two BAFTA Awards, and a Golden Globe Award
Laurents' contributions to American theatre and cinema continue to inspire generations of artists, writers, and directors. His legacy serves as a testament to the power of creative storytelling and the impact it can have on popular culture.
Personal Milestones and Key Life Events
Laurents' personal life was marked by significant events that shaped his worldview and influenced his work. These include:
- Changing his last name from Levine to Laurents
- Rejecting fundamentalist religions, despite identifying as Jewish
- His sister Edith's struggle with chorea as a child
Remembering Arthur Laurents
Arthur Laurents passed away on May 5, 2011, leaving behind a rich body of work that continues to captivate audiences worldwide. His life and legacy serve as a reminder of the transformative power of art and the impact one person can have on the world of entertainment.
FAQ
What is Arthur Laurents most famous play?
Arthur Laurents most famous play is probably Gypsy, a classic American musical with music by Jule Styne and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim.
How did Arthur Laurents get involved in the theater?
Laurents began his career in the theater as a playwright and screenwriter, eventually transitioning to directing and writing for Broadway.
What inspired Arthur Laurents to write West Side Story?
Laurents was inspired to write West Side Story by William Shakespeares Romeo and Juliet, which he adapted into a modern-day musical set in New York Citys Upper West Side.
What was Arthur Laurents relationship like with his collaborators?
Laurents had close relationships with his collaborators, including Leonard Bernstein, Stephen Sondheim, and Jerome Robbins, with whom he worked on numerous projects.
What awards did Arthur Laurents win for his work?
Arthur Laurents won numerous awards for his work, including multiple Tony Awards, Emmy Awards, and a Pulitzer Prize for Drama.