The Passion of Josef D.

New York: Arthur Cantor and E.E. Fogelson, 1963. Draft script for the 1964 Broadway play. INSCRIBED by Chayefsky to the play's producer, Kip Cohen on the title page in the year prior to the play's debut: "Nov 9/63 / To Kip Cohen / Without whom there would be no 'Passion of' / Paddy."

"The Passion of Josef D." opened at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre on February 11, 1964 and closed on February 22, 1964, after a total of only 15 performances. Of note as Chayefsky's least successful play, focusing on the life of Joseph Stalin (played in the production by Peter Falk) from the beginning of the Russian Revolution in 1917 until Lenin's stroke in 1924.

From the collection of Kip Cohen, with his stationery card laid in. Included is a copy of the Playbill from the premiere, signed by Cohen next to his name on the title page.

Red Studio Duplicating Service wrappers with titles in gilt. Title page present,noted as "Revised November 11, 1963," with a credit for Chayefsky and the address of the production company, Arthur Cantor & E.E. Fogelson. 103 leaves, mechanical duplication. Pages Near Fine, wrapper about Very Good with creasing at the hinge folds and corners.

[Book #129479]