Born Yesterday
by Garson Kanin

Broadway West End
Born Yesterday Book Cover
Born Yesterday Cover

Highlights

120 mins 1940s/WWII Interior Set Period Costumes American Comedy

Awards & Recognition

Drama Desk Award

Nominee: 2011 Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Revival of a Play

What readers are saying

Readers appreciate the clever writing and timeless themes of the play, even though many find it somewhat dated in its political commentary. The combination of humor and drama resonates strongly with audiences, who enjoy its rich character development and underlying messages. Some critiques mention its naivety, but overall, it evokes a sense of nostalgia and reflection on contemporary issues.

Clever and timeless writing Rich character development Humorous yet dramatic Engaging themes for today Some find it a bit dated

Synopsis

Garson Kanin, Kanin, Garson

Press Reviews

"When Born Yesterday opened in 1946, its casually cynical take on American politics gave off the aroma of warm newsprint. The play’s depiction of the mercenary foundations of Washington deal making (and bill making) felt provocative in the complacent days when ticker tape from parades celebrating America’s triumph in World War II still stuck to shoes."

— The New York Times

Characters

Character
Harry Brock
Paul Verrall
Ed Devery
Senator Norval Hedges
Mrs. Hedges
Eddie Brock
The Assistant Manager
Helen
A Bellhop
Another Bellhop
A Barber
A Manicurist
A Bootblack
A Waiter
Billie Dawn

Videos

BWW TV: BORN YESTERDAY on Broadway!

Publication

Year 1951
Binding Paperback
Edition Acting ed.
Pages 89
Place New York
Language English
ISBN-13 9780822201366
ISBN-10 0822201364
LCC PS3521.A45 B6 2002
DCC 812/.54

Born Yesterday is a American comedy play written by Garson Kanin and published by Dramatists Play Service in New York (1951).

Community Reviews

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Rating

3.9

218 ratings · 443 reviews

Review

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Performance Rights

Available for Licensing
Amateur & Professional
Fee: Minimum Fee: $130 per performance
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