About
Edward Albee was a major American playwright of the 20th century. Adopted as an infant, he grew up in a wealthy family. His play The Zoo Story (1959) brought him recognition, but it was Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? (1962) that established his reputation, winning a Tony Award and being adapted into a film. He received three Pulitzer Prizes for A Delicate Balance (1967), Seascape (1975), and Three Tall Women (1994). His often provocative work explores the illusions and pretenses of American society. He also founded a foundation supporting artists in residence.
* 1928-03-12 — † 2016-09-16
Major works
- The Zoo Story (1959)play
- Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? (1962)play
- A Delicate Balance (1966)play
- Seascape (1975)play
- Three Tall Women (1994)play
Key milestones
- 1963Wins the Tony Award for Best Play for Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?
- 1967Founds the Edward F. Albee Foundation, which maintains an artist retreat in Montauk.
- 1996Receives the National Medal of Arts and is honored at the Kennedy Center.
Themes
Illusion and realityCritique of American societyCommunication and isolationFamily and relationshipsDeath and aging
Sources: kennedy-center.org · britannica.com · albeefoundation.org