Ira Levin, a multifaceted creative genius, embarked on a writing career at the tender age of 15. His educational background was marked by attendance at the prestigious Horace Mann school, followed by a two-year stint at Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa. However, he soon transferred to New York University, where he majored in philosophy and English, ultimately graduating in 1950.
Levin's journey took an unexpected turn in 1953, when he was drafted into the army. Based in Queens, New York, he utilized his writing skills to produce training films for the military, before transitioning into television. His early work included scripting episodes for anthology series such as Lights Out (1946) and The United States Steel Hour (1953).
At the age of 25, Levin made a remarkable theatre debut with an adaptation of Mac Hyman's "No Time for Sergeants" (1955). This marked the beginning of a prolific playwriting career, which would go on to yield numerous critically acclaimed productions. One of his most notable works is the longest-running Broadway mystery to date, "Deathtrap" (1978).
In addition to his theatrical accomplishments, Levin also penned several popular novels, including "A Kiss Before Dying". His impressive body of work also includes plays such as "Critics Choice" and "Interlock", as well as the Broadway stage score and libretto for "Drat the Cat!".
Furthermore, Levin was a member of ASCAP, joining the organization in 1965. It was during this time that he collaborated with Milton Schafer on the popular gospel song "He Touched Me".
