David Grimm

David Grimm is an American playwright known for his stylish, witty, and intellectually rich plays that often blend classical influences with contemporary themes. With a background in both classical literature and modern drama, Grimm has become a respected voice in the American theatre, particularly for his works that explore identity, politics, history, and the contradictions of human nature.

Grimm was born in Oberlin, Ohio, and raised abroad, spending significant portions of his early life in the Middle East and Europe. He later returned to the United States and earned degrees from Sarah Lawrence College and the New York University Tisch School of the Arts Graduate Acting Program. This eclectic upbringing and formal training in classical theatre deeply influenced his writing style, which often incorporates elevated language, historical settings, and complex characters.

One of Grimm’s best-known plays is Measure for Pleasure (2006), a bawdy Restoration-style comedy that premiered at The Public Theater in New York. The play was praised for its clever homage to classical form while tackling contemporary issues like gender and sexuality with irreverence and flair. Another notable work, The Miracle at Naples, also blends farce and heartfelt storytelling, drawing on the tradition of commedia dell’arte.

Grimm’s other plays include Kit Marlowe, a provocative drama about the Elizabethan playwright and spy; Tales of Red Vienna, which premiered at Manhattan Theatre Club and explores post–World War I society through the lens of grief and survival; and The Savages of Hartford, which addresses the erasure and distortion of Native American history.

In addition to his stage work, Grimm has written for television and film and has taught writing and theatre at various institutions. His plays have been developed and produced at major theaters including the Public Theater, Manhattan Theatre Club, Roundabout Theatre Company, and Hartford Stage.

David Grimm’s work is known for its theatricality, intelligence, and emotional depth. By drawing on historical forms and subjects while exploring contemporary concerns, he continues to challenge and entertain audiences with plays that are both thought-provoking and deeply human.