Barry, Philip (1896-1949), was an American dramatist. He became known for his use of witty dialogue and social satire in such comedies of manners as Holiday (1928) and The Philadelphia Story (1939). Barry also wrote popular comedies about marital problems, notably Paris Bound (1927) and The Animal Kingdom (1932). Barry wrote several impressive, sometimes puzzling, philosophical dramas. Hotel Universe (1930) is a fantasy about spiritual values. Here Come the Clowns (1938) explores the conflict between good and evil. Barry’s other plays include The Youngest (1924), In a Garden (1925), White Wings (1926), and Without Love (1942).
Barry was born on June 18, 1896, in Rochester, New York. He studied at Yale University, where he became a student in George Pierce Baker’s famous “47 Workshop” for playwrights. Barry died on Dec. 3, 1949.
