Abe Burrows

Abe Burrows (1910–1985) was an American librettist, director, and humorist who became one of Broadway’s most successful creative forces in the mid-20th century. Born Abram Solman Borowitz in New York City, he studied at New York University before beginning his career as a writer of radio comedy sketches. His sharp wit, ear for dialogue, and ability to capture the humor of everyday life soon made him a sought-after writer in both entertainment and theatre.

Burrows gained national recognition as a writer and performer on the popular radio program Duffy’s Tavern in the 1940s, where his quick-paced comedic style reached millions of listeners. This success established him as a comic voice with a unique ability to shape quirky, memorable characters. His transition from radio to the Broadway stage showcased his versatility and cemented his place among the leading writers of his generation.

His breakout theatrical achievement came with Guys and Dolls (1950), for which he co-wrote the book with Jo Swerling, set to Frank Loesser’s music and lyrics. Burrows’ structural skill and comedic timing helped refine Swerling’s draft into a tight, sparkling script that captured Damon Runyon’s colorful New York underworld. The show became a landmark in American musical theatre, winning the Tony Award for Best Musical and establishing Burrows as a premier librettist.

Burrows went on to write and direct a number of Broadway hits, including How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying (1961), which earned him both a Tony Award and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama. His works were known for their blend of satire, humor, and heart, often reflecting on ambition, love, and the quirks of human behavior. He also worked as a director on shows like Cactus Flower and Forty Carats, bringing his trademark comedic sensibility to every project.

Abe Burrows died in 1985, leaving behind a legacy as one of Broadway’s great comedic storytellers. His contributions to Guys and Dolls and How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying remain enduring examples of his brilliance as a librettist and director. Today, his influence is recognized as a vital link in the development of the modern American musical, blending humor, narrative clarity, and character-driven storytelling.