Abe Lincoln in Illinois (play)

Abe Lincoln in Illinois was written by the American playwright Robert E. Sherwood in 1938. The play, in three acts, covers the life of President Abraham Lincoln from his childhood through his final speech in Illinois before he left for Washington. The play also covers his romance with Mary Todd and his debates with Stephen A. Douglas, and uses Lincoln's own words in some scenes. Sherwood received the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1939 for his work. Raymond Massey portrayed Lincoln; he repeated his role in the 1940 film version.

In 1993, the play was revived on Broadway with Sam Waterston in the role.

Adaptations

In addition to the 1940 film, there were five television adaptations - in 1945, 1950, 1951, 1957, and 1964. Massey repeated his stage role yet again in the 1950 and '51 adaptations. The 1964 production in the Hallmark Hall of Fame featured Jason Robards in the title role.

Awards and nominations

• 1939 Pulitzer Prize for Drama
• 1994 Drama Desk Award Outstanding Play Revival
• 1994 Tony Award for Best Revival of a Play

References

External links

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