Abe Burrows (1910–85,) born Abram Solman Borowitz, was an American playwright, director, and humorist. He initially gained fame as a radio scriptwriter, contributing to popular shows like Duffy’s Tavern in the 1940s. Burrows’ sharp wit and comedic talent soon transitioned to Broadway, where he made a significant impact.
Born in New York City, Borowitz was educated at the City College of New York and New York University. His Broadway début came with the book for the musical Guys and Dolls (1950,) co-written with Jo Swerling and based on stories by American short-story writer Damon Runyon. The show was a massive success, winning the Tony Award for Best Musical and cementing Burrows’ reputation as a top-tier playwright. He followed this with another hit, How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying (1961,) which he co-wrote with Jack Weinstock and Willie Gilbert. This musical also won the Tony Award for Best Musical and earned Burrows a Pulitzer for Drama in 1962.
Burrows’ other notable works include the books for Can-Can (1953) and Silk Stockings (1955,) both collaborations with Cole Porter. His ability to blend humor with engaging storytelling made his works enduringly popular. The memoir Honest, Abe: Is There Really No Business Like Show Business? (1980) offers an insider’s look at the entertainment industry.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Abe Burrows
Someone once defined humor as a way to keep from killing yourself. I keep my sense of humor and I stay alive.
—Abe Burrows
Topics: Humor
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