Deaths on February 11

Howard Lindsay, American actor, director, producer, and playwright (b. 1888)

Howard Lindsay, born Herman Nelke, (March 29, 1889 – February 11, 1968) was a monumental figure in American theater, leaving an indelible mark across multiple disciplines as a prolific playwright, a skilled librettist, an astute director, a versatile actor, and an influential theatrical producer. His career, spanning the early to mid-20th century, saw him contribute to some of Broadway's most enduring and successful productions, establishing him as a true theatrical polymath.

The Multifaceted Theatrical Career of Howard Lindsay

Born Herman Nelke, Lindsay later adopted his stage name, a common practice for artists of his era seeking a more memorable or fitting identity for their professional persona. His extensive contributions to the performing arts showcased a rare breadth of talent:

• Playwright: Crafting original stories and adapting existing narratives for the stage, often blending humor, drama, and social commentary.
• Librettist: Writing the text, or libretto, for musical theater productions and operas, including dialogue, lyrics, and stage directions. This role is crucial in shaping the narrative and emotional core of a musical.
• Director: Guiding actors and technical staff to bring a play or musical to life, overseeing everything from scene blocking to performance nuances.
• Actor: Performing on stage, bringing characters to life through dialogue, movement, and emotional expression.
• Theatrical Producer: Overseeing the financial and administrative aspects of a theatrical production, from securing funding and managing budgets to hiring staff and marketing shows.

Lindsay's ability to excel in each of these demanding roles underscored his deep understanding of theater from every perspective, making him a truly unique force in the industry.

The Iconic Collaboration of Lindsay and Crouse

Howard Lindsay is perhaps most widely recognized for his extraordinary writing partnership with Russel Crouse. The collaboration of "Lindsay and Crouse" became one of the most celebrated and prolific writing duos in Broadway history. Their combined genius resulted in a string of critically acclaimed and commercially successful plays and musicals that captivated audiences for decades. Their work was characterized by sharp wit, intricate plotting, memorable characters, and a keen sense of theatrical timing.

Notable Works by Lindsay and Crouse:

• Arsenic and Old Lace (1941): A classic black comedy about two elderly sisters who poison lonely old men, becoming one of Broadway's longest-running and most beloved comedies.
• State of the Union (1945): A political comedy that earned them the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, exploring themes of integrity and compromise in American politics.
• Life with Father (1939): Though primarily written by Lindsay alone with Crouse joining later, their collaborative efforts contributed to its incredible longevity and cultural impact.
• Librettists for The Sound of Music (1959): They co-wrote the book (libretto) for the iconic Rodgers and Hammerstein musical, which became one of the most successful musicals of all time.

Their ability to consistently produce high-quality, entertaining, and often thought-provoking works cemented their legacy as master storytellers for the stage.

Life with Father: A Broadway Phenomenon

Beyond his acclaimed writing partnership, Lindsay achieved immense personal fame for his performance alongside his wife, Dorothy Stickney, in the record-breaking play Life with Father. Based on Clarence Day's autobiographical stories, this heartwarming and humorous stage adaptation opened on Broadway in 1939 and became an unprecedented success.

Lindsay starred as the curmudgeonly but endearing Clarence Day Sr., the patriarch of a bustling late 19th-century New York family, while Stickney played his equally strong-willed and charming wife, Vinnie. Their on-stage chemistry, undoubtedly bolstered by their real-life marriage, brought an authentic depth and warmth to their roles. The play captured the essence of domestic chaos, paternal eccentricity, and enduring family love with such charm that it resonated deeply with audiences.

Life with Father famously ran for 3,224 performances, setting a new record for the longest-running non-musical play in Broadway history, a testament to its universal appeal and the captivating performances of its lead actors. This remarkable achievement solidified Lindsay and Stickney's place in theatrical lore, making their portrayal of the Day family truly unforgettable.

Frequently Asked Questions about Howard Lindsay

What was Howard Lindsay best known for?

Howard Lindsay is best known for two primary achievements: his prolific writing partnership with Russel Crouse, which produced plays like Arsenic and Old Lace and the libretto for The Sound of Music, and his acclaimed performance with his wife, Dorothy Stickney, in the record-breaking Broadway hit Life with Father.

Who was Dorothy Stickney in relation to Howard Lindsay?

Dorothy Stickney was Howard Lindsay's wife and a talented actress herself. They famously co-starred as Clarence Day Sr. and Vinnie Day in the long-running Broadway play Life with Father, where their real-life marital chemistry enhanced their on-stage performances.

What made the Lindsay and Crouse collaboration significant?

The collaboration of Lindsay and Crouse was significant for its consistent output of highly successful and critically acclaimed works across comedy and musical theater. They wrote or co-wrote numerous Broadway hits, including the Pulitzer Prize-winning State of the Union, becoming one of the most successful writing teams in American theater history.

Did Howard Lindsay act in his own plays?

Yes, Howard Lindsay frequently acted in plays he was involved with, most notably starring as Clarence Day Sr. in Life with Father, a role he also helped shape through his writing and directing input for the production.

What was Life with Father's historical impact?

Life with Father held the record as the longest-running non-musical play in Broadway history, with 3,224 performances. Its extended run and widespread popularity made it a cultural phenomenon, celebrated for its humorous and heartwarming portrayal of American family life in a bygone era.