Neil Simon was an American playwright and screenwriter, celebrated for his prolific output and consistent success. He authored over 30 plays, establishing himself as one of Broadway's most reliable hitmakers and a globally performed dramatist. While predominantly a master of comedy, his works often delve into profound reflections on the 20th-century Jewish-American experience. Simon's writing is characterized by its sharp wit, relatable characters, and enduring dialogue.
This omnibus edition combines Neil Simon's memoirs, "Rewrites" and "The Play Goes On," chronicling his remarkable five-decade career as America's greatest playwright. With humor and insight, he reflects on his life, family, and the evolution of modern entertainment, capturing both triumphs and personal losses.
The story explores the profound love between two literary figures, Rose and Walsh, set against the backdrop of a picturesque Long Island beach house. As Walsh prepares to leave forever, he presents Rose with a life-altering proposal aimed at ensuring her financial security. Their relationship delves into themes of love, sacrifice, and the complexities of artistic ambition, highlighting the emotional and practical repercussions of their bond.
The play God's Favorite is a light hearted and yet very poignient modern look at the Scriptural Character of Job - a man who has everything and loses it all before finding what is truly important.
Genre: Dramatic ComedyCharacters: 3 males, 3 femalesScenery: Interior Maureen Stapleton won Broadway's Tony Award as Best Actress for the role of Evy Meara, a popular singer who has hit the skids. After a short stay in rehab, her best friend age-defying Toby, her daughter Polly, and Jimmy Perry, a gay actor try to help her adjust to sobriety with a jolly birthday party. Enter Lou Tanner, a former lover, who ends up giving her a black eye. The party is a wash out, the "gingerb
Comedy / 7m, 5f (performed on Broadway with 3m, 2f) / Scenery: Interior Hilarity abounds in this portrait of three couples successively occupying a suite at the Plaza. A suburban couple take the suite while their house is being paintedandit turns out to be the one in which they honeymooned 23 (or was it 24?) years before and was yesterday the anniversary, or is it today? This wry tale of marriage in tatters is followed by the exploits of a Hollywood producer who, after three marriages, is look
Comedy / 6m, 2f / Int. This classic comedy opens as a group of the guys assembled for cards in the apartment of divorced Oscar Madison. And if the mess is any indication, it's no wonder that his wife left him. Late to arrive is Felix Unger who has just been separated from his wife. Fastidious, depressed and none too tense, Felix seems suicidal, but as the action unfolds Oscar becomes the one with murder on his mind when the clean-freak and the slob ultimately decide to room together with hilarious results as The Odd Couple is born. "His skill is not only great but constantly growing...There is scarcely a moment that is not hilarious." - The New York Times "Fresh, richly hilarious and remarkably original. Wildly, irresistibly, incredibly and continuously funny." - New York Daily News
The star spangled girl was first presented by Saint Subber at the plymouth Theatre, in New York City, on December 21, 1966. It was directed by George Axelrod, scenic production was by Oliver Smith, lighting was by Jean Rosenthal, and the costumes were by Ann Roth.
Exploring the journey of a celebrated playwright, this book delves into Neil Simon's personal and professional milestones, reflecting on his early television career, romantic experiences, and the challenges he faced, including failure and profound loss. With heartfelt introspection, Simon shares his insights and experiences, offering readers an intimate look at the man behind the plays and the resilience that drives his creativity.
