Questo critico teatrale americano ha lavorato per il New York Times dal 1925 al 1960. Nel suo necrologio, il Times lo definì "il critico più importante del suo tempo". Le sue recensioni hanno plasmato il panorama teatrale, esercitando un'influenza significativa sia sul pubblico che sugli artisti. Il suo occhio acuto e i suoi commenti penetranti lo hanno reso una figura centrale della critica teatrale.
From one of the greatest figures of 19th-century America... This new edition offers a broad view of the author's finest work, featuring his critical essays, poems, and letters, plus a considerable amount of material from the Journals, including an entry discovered in 1964 in the Library of Congress.
The influence of Brooks Atkinson on Broadway was profound, as he championed the importance of writing and acting during times of change in the theater district. His reviews could significantly impact a production's success, with positive critiques leading to financial gains and fame, while negative ones often signaled a rapid decline in attendance. Atkinson's presence ensured that Broadway remained a vibrant hub of entertainment, maintaining its relevance in the heart of Times Square.