Morrie Ryskind

Morrie Ryskind (1895–1985) was an American playwright, screenwriter, and lyricist whose Broadway and film work included collaborations with George S. Kaufman and the Marx Brothers.

George S. Kaufman: George S. Kaufman was an American playwright, director, and humorist known for sharp Broadway comedies. Ryskind’s principal writing partner on stage comedies including Of Thee I Sing.
A Night at the Opera: A Night at the Opera is a 1935 Marx Brothers comedy film directed by Sam Wood. Ryskind co-wrote its screenplay, including the celebrated stateroom sequence.
Pulitzer Prize for Drama: The Pulitzer Prize for Drama is an annual American award for distinguished plays. Of Thee I Sing, with Ryskind’s book, became the first musical to win the prize.
George Gershwin: George Gershwin was an American composer whose works joined popular song with classical forms. Ryskind wrote librettos for Gershwin musicals including Of Thee I Sing.
Marx Brothers: The Marx Brothers were a comedy team whose films combined verbal wit, physical humor, and musical performance. Ryskind helped shape their screen comedies, including A Night at the Opera.
Animal Crackers: Animal Crackers is a 1930 Marx Brothers comedy film adapted from their 1928 Broadway musical. Ryskind adapted the stage production for the Marx Brothers’ second feature film.
Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay: The Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay honors a screenplay adapted from previously published or produced material. Ryskind won the award for adapting The Great Ziegfeld.
Irving Berlin: Irving Berlin was an American songwriter and composer of popular songs and Broadway musicals. Berlin composed The Cocoanuts, whose book was written by Ryskind’s frequent collaborator Kaufman.
Broadway theatre: Broadway theatre is New York City’s commercial professional theatre district and its productions. Ryskind built his reputation through Broadway plays and musical librettos.
Strike Up the Band: Strike Up the Band is a 1930 musical comedy with a book by George S. Kaufman and Morrie Ryskind and music by George Gershwin. Its antiwar satire shows Ryskind’s work in musical comedy beyond the Marx Brothers.

Linked from 1 page