Harold Clurman

Harold Clurman (1901–1980) was an influential American theatrical director, drama critic, and educator. He taught at the New School for Social Research from 1933, founding courses like The World of Theatre, and later lectured at the Dramatic Workshop and Hunter College. A key figure in the Group Theatre (1931–1941), he directed seminal works by Odets, Miller, and O’Neill. As a critic for The New Republic (1948–1952) and The Nation (1953–1980), he shaped American theater discourse. His books, including The Fervent Years and All People Are Famous, cemented his legacy. Honored with the Legion of Honour and the George Jean Nathan Award, his influence persists through institutions like the Harold Clurman Theatre and the Harold Clurman Laboratory Theater Company.