The life and works of legendary playwright George S. Kaufman and his collaborators are being celebrated in an updated and revised legacy website: georgeskaufman.com. The site offers an in-depth look into Kaufman’s extensive body of work, highlighting his many collaborations with celebrated figures like Moss Hart, the Gershwins, Edna Ferber, the Marx Brothers, and Irving Berlin.
Curated by Laurence Maslon, a theatre historian and trustee of The George S. Kaufman Literary Trust, this revamped site doesn’t just scratch the surface. It dives deep into each of Kaufman’s forty-plus plays and musicals with summaries, cast details, critical articles, and a wealth of historical photos and graphics. It’s designed to be both a treasure trove for Kaufman enthusiasts and an invaluable resource for educators, students, and theatre professionals. The main attraction is the newly published glossaries that offer historical insights and serve as a vital educational tool, making these plays easier and more enjoyable than ever to produce.
Launching alongside the site is a wave of fresh initiatives celebrating Kaufman’s work, including new and adapted versions of some of his classics to make them even more accessible. There’s a 40-minute adaptation of You Can’t Take It with You for school competitions and a condensed version of Stage Door, a drama with a large female cast, that requires fewer resources—a great fit for smaller theatre groups.
The site also connects Kaufman’s legacy with future theatre makers, with the Literary Trust working closely with licensing partner Dramatists Play Service to make Kaufman’s work widely available to both professional and amateur groups around the world.
In Maslon’s words, “What brings the Kaufman Literary Trust the most joy is to see George’s plays and musicals done on stage—that’s what counts the most.” The Trust aims to keep Kaufman’s spirit alive and accessible through updated editions, diverse casting options, and user-friendly adaptations that ensure Kaufman’s humor, humanity, and insight will continue to delight audiences for generations.
- Check out the new George S. Kaufman site.
- Peruse our George S. Kaufman titles.
