Dorothy Heyward

Dorothy Heyward (née Kuhns; 1890-1961) was an American playwright, well known for co-authoring the play 'Porgy' with her husband DuBose Heyward in 1927, which was later adapted into the opera 'Porgy and Bess' with music by George Gershwin. Born in Wooster, Ohio, she cultivated her interest in literature early on, which led her to write several plays, including 'The Dud,' later retitled 'Nancy Ann.' Heyward had a keen interest in African-American culture, which is reflected in many of her works that touch on subjects such as slavery and prejudice.