Edgar Selwyn
Director
About Edgar Selwyn
Edgar Selwyn was a pioneering American playwright, director, producer, and theatrical impresario who made significant contributions to both Broadway and early Hollywood cinema. Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1875, Selwyn began his career in theater and quickly established himself as a formidable force in American entertainment. In 1919, he co-founded the influential production company Selwyn & Company with his brother Archie Selwyn, which became one of Broadway's most successful producing organizations. The company produced numerous hit plays and operated several theaters, including the renowned Selwyn Theatre in New York City. Selwyn transitioned to film during the advent of sound, directing his most famous cinematic work, 'The Girl in the Show' (1929), during this pivotal period in Hollywood history. Throughout his career, he was known for his keen theatrical instincts and ability to identify compelling dramatic material. He continued working in entertainment until his death in 1944, leaving behind a lasting legacy in both stage and screen.
The Craft
Behind the Camera
Selwyn's directing style was characterized by its theatrical approach, emphasizing dramatic presentation and strong character development. His work reflected the transition from stage to screen, maintaining the dramatic intensity of live theater while adapting to the new possibilities of cinema. He paid particular attention to dialogue and dramatic pacing, skills honed during his extensive Broadway career.
Milestones
- Co-founded Selwyn & Company with brother Archie Selwyn (1919)
- Directed 'The Girl in the Show' (1929) during the transition to sound films
- Produced numerous Broadway hits including 'The Little Minister' and 'Kiki'
- Operated the Selwyn Theatre chain in New York City
- Successfully transitioned from stage to early talkies cinema
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Special Recognition
- Selwyn Theatre in New York City named in his honor (now American Airlines Theatre)
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Edgar Selwyn played a crucial role in shaping American theater during its golden age, helping to establish the commercial theater model that dominated Broadway for decades. His production company, Selwyn & Company, was instrumental in developing and presenting works that defined American popular culture in the early 20th century. By bridging the gap between legitimate theater and popular entertainment, Selwyn helped democratize the theatrical experience. His transition to film during the early talkies period represented the broader movement of theatrical talent to Hollywood, bringing sophisticated dramatic sensibilities to early cinema. The Selwyn Theatre, which bears his name, remains a testament to his lasting impact on American cultural institutions.
Lasting Legacy
Edgar Selwyn's legacy endures through his contributions to both Broadway and early Hollywood, particularly his role in establishing the commercial theater production model that influenced generations of producers. The Selwyn Theatre, now operating as the American Airlines Theatre, stands as a physical monument to his impact on New York's cultural landscape. His work during the transition from silent films to talkies helped establish conventions for adapting theatrical works to the screen. Selwyn's approach to production, emphasizing quality entertainment with broad appeal, became a template for successful theatrical and film enterprises. His influence can be seen in the continued collaboration between Broadway and Hollywood, a relationship he helped establish during his career.
Who They Inspired
Selwyn influenced numerous theatrical producers and early film directors through his innovative production methods and business practices. His success in creating a vertically integrated theatrical company inspired similar models in both theater and film. The actors and directors who worked under his production company often went on to successful careers, carrying forward his emphasis on quality entertainment. His approach to adapting theatrical works for film influenced how later generations approached the transition from stage to screen. The business practices he established at Selwyn & Company became standard operating procedures for theatrical production companies throughout the 20th century.
Off Screen
Edgar Selwyn was married to Ruth Selwyn (née Gillette), an actress and producer who became his professional collaborator. The couple worked together on several theatrical productions and film projects. Selwyn came from a family deeply involved in entertainment, with his brother Archie being his primary business partner. He was known for his sophisticated taste in both artistic and social circles, maintaining a prominent position in New York's theatrical community throughout his career.
Education
Limited formal education, primarily trained through practical experience in theater and early cinema
Family
- Ruth Selwyn (née Gillette) (married until his death in 1944)
Did You Know?
- The Selwyn Theatre in New York was named after him and his brother Archie
- He was part of the influential Selwyn theatrical dynasty
- His production company was one of the most successful on Broadway during the 1920s
- He successfully navigated the challenging transition from silent films to talkies
- His wife Ruth Selwyn was also a prominent producer and actress
- He began his career as an actor before moving into production and directing
- The Selwyn brothers owned and operated multiple theaters in New York City
- He was known for having an exceptional eye for theatrical talent
- His production company helped launch the careers of numerous Broadway stars
- He was contemporaries with other theatrical giants like the Shubert brothers
In Their Own Words
The theater is not just a business, it's an art that must be nurtured with both passion and practicality
Good entertainment knows no boundaries between stage and screen - only good storytelling matters
In both theater and film, the audience is the ultimate critic and must always be respected
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Edgar Selwyn?
Edgar Selwyn was an influential American playwright, director, producer, and theatrical impresario who was prominent in both Broadway and early Hollywood. He co-founded Selwyn & Company with his brother Archie and was instrumental in shaping American theater during its golden age.
What films is Edgar Selwyn best known for?
Edgar Selwyn is best known for directing 'The Girl in the Show' (1929), which was his most significant film work during the transition from silent films to talkies. While he had a more extensive career in theater, this film represents his major contribution to cinema.
When was Edgar Selwyn born and when did he die?
Edgar Selwyn was born on January 20, 1875, in Cincinnati, Ohio, and died on January 13, 1944, at the age of 68.
What awards did Edgar Selwyn win?
While Edgar Selwyn achieved significant commercial success and recognition in theater, there are no records of major film awards. His primary honor was having the Selwyn Theatre in New York City named after him and his brother, now known as the American Airlines Theatre.
What was Edgar Selwyn's directing style?
Selwyn's directing style was characterized by its theatrical approach, emphasizing dramatic presentation and strong character development. His work reflected the transition from stage to screen, maintaining dramatic intensity while adapting to cinema's new possibilities.
How did Edgar Selwyn influence American theater?
Edgar Selwyn revolutionized American theater through his production company Selwyn & Company, establishing commercial production models that influenced Broadway for decades. He helped democratize theater by making quality entertainment accessible to broader audiences.
What was Selwyn & Company?
Selwyn & Company was a theatrical production company co-founded by Edgar and Archie Selwyn in 1919. It became one of Broadway's most successful producing organizations, operating multiple theaters and producing numerous hit plays that defined American popular entertainment in the early 20th century.
Learn More
Films
1 film
