Brian Hooker

Brian Hooker was an American poet, translator, and librettist, born on November 30, 1880, in New Rochelle, New York. A man of letters with a refined literary sensibility, Hooker is best remembered for his elegant translation of Edmond Rostand’s Cyrano de Bergerac, which became the definitive English version for the American stage and beyond. His command of language and ear for rhythm made him a sought-after figure in literary and theatrical circles.

Hooker’s translation of* Cyrano* premiered on Broadway in 1923, starring Walter Hampden, and quickly became a staple of American theatre. His lyrical adaptation preserved the poetic spirit of the original French, making the character of Cyrano resonate deeply with English-speaking audiences. The version remains widely performed today and is often cited for its balance of faithfulness and flair.

Though Cyrano was his crowning achievement, Hooker also collaborated with composers on musical projects. Most notably, he co-wrote the libretto for The Song of Norway (1944) with Milton Lazarus, using the music of Edvard Grieg adapted by Robert Wright and George Forrest. The operetta-style musical was a success on Broadway and showed Hooker’s ability to blend literary storytelling with musical form.

In addition to his theatrical work, Hooker was a professor of English and a published poet. He contributed to literary journals and anthologies, and his interest in the classics informed much of his dramatic writing. He also worked as an editor and was known for mentoring younger writers.

Brian Hooker died in 1946. Though not as widely known today, his work—especially his Cyrano translation—continues to influence modern stagings and adaptations, a testament to his literary artistry and theatrical insight.