Robert Russel

Robert Russell was a British playwright and screenwriter best known for his collaboration with composer Ronald Hanmer on the book for the musical Jorrocks, a lighthearted and distinctly English musical comedy based on the writings of 19th-century sporting journalist R.S. Surtees. Premiering in London in the early 1960s, Jorrocks charmed audiences with its period humor and colorful characters, showcasing Russell’s flair for adaptation and theatrical wit.

Though not as widely recognized as some of his contemporaries, Russell contributed meaningfully to mid-20th-century British theatre, particularly through works that brought classic or historical British characters and settings to the stage in accessible, comedic formats.

In addition to his work on musicals, Russell also wrote for radio and television, where his clear storytelling and light comic touch made him a reliable contributor to British entertainment programming during the post-war years. His versatility as a dramatist allowed him to work across genres, from period pieces to contemporary tales.

While detailed biographical information about Robert Russell remains limited in public records, his work—particularly Jorrocks—continues to be remembered for its charm, humor, and its celebration of British literary heritage in musical form.