The American Way

(1939)
By George S. Kaufman and Moss Hart

Cast size: 34 men, 20 women; many sets

A dramatic epic story of assimilation, patriotism and prejudice in America. Kaufman and Hart’s most serious play.

For performance rights to this show, please contact: laurence.maslon@nyu.edu

The Plot

A dramatic epic story of assimilation, patriotism and prejudice in America. A German immigrant named Martin Gunther comes to America at the turn of the century, moves to the Midwest where he thrives as a furniture manufacturer and raises a family.

Soon, WWI intervenes and he loses one son in the war; when a local pro-Nazi occurs in his town on the eve of the Second World War, Gunther loses his life for his principles. Kaufman and Hart’s most serious play, The American Way galvanized audiences at the large Century Theater in Rockefeller Center in the last days of the 1930s; it starred Frederic March as the leading character.

Be Yourself

Other Plays in the Catalogue

Minick

Extended Collection|

Minick is a three-act Broadway play written by Edna Ferber and George S. Kaufman, based on Ferber's 1922 short story "Old Man Minick", that opened on September 24, 1924.

Contact Us Today

Interested in bringing George S. Kaufman’s timeless plays to your stage?

Please refer to the contact information for each specific play on the various collection pages for direct amateur and professional licensing information.

Plays are represented by Concord Theatricals, Broadway Dramatic Licensing, and Music Theatre International respectively

If you are interested in first-class performance or film/television rights:

In the US, George S. Kaufman’s plays are represented by:

CPK Artists, LLC

In the UK, George S. Kaufman’s plays are represented by:

Alan Brodie Representation

For more information about George S. Kaufman or this website, contact:

Laurence Maslon

Literary Trustee, George S. Kaufman Estate

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