Frank McMahon (author) facts for kids

Frank McMahon (born September 20, 1919 – died December 22, 1984) was a talented writer of plays, known as a playwright. He was also a leader in the broadcasting world. One of his most famous works was a play called Borstal Boy. This play was based on a book by Brendan Behan and became very popular. It was shown for a long time at the Abbey Theatre in Dublin, Ireland, and then moved to Broadway in New York City.

Early Life and Education

Frank McMahon was born in New York City in 1919. His parents were from Ireland; his mother was from County Mayo and his father from County Roscommon. He grew up with a strong connection to his Irish heritage.

Frank went to college at Fordham University. After finishing his studies, he joined the United States Navy. He served as an officer during World War II, which was a major global conflict.

Career in Broadcasting

After the war, Frank McMahon had a very successful career. He worked as an executive for big companies like NBC and MCA. These companies are well-known in the broadcasting and entertainment industries.

In 1961, McMahon decided to move to Ireland. There, he started working with Raidió Teilifís Éireann (RTÉ). RTÉ is Ireland's national public service broadcaster, similar to a major TV and radio network.

Writing for the Stage: Borstal Boy

In the mid-1960s, Frank McMahon received an important request. Tomás Mac Anna, who was the Artistic Director of Dublin's famous Abbey Theatre, asked him to write a play. The play was to be based on a book called Borstal Boy by Brendan Behan. This book was about Behan's own experiences.

McMahon worked hard to turn the book into a play for the stage. The play was first shown at the Abbey Theatre in 1967. It was a huge success and received great reviews from critics. In fact, it became the longest-running play ever shown at the Abbey Theatre.

After its success in Dublin, Borstal Boy moved to Broadway in New York City in 1969. Broadway is known for its many famous theaters. For his work on the play, Frank McMahon won a Tony Award for Best Play in 1970. This is one of the highest honors for plays in the United States.

Later Works and Legacy

Later in his life, Frank McMahon started his own publishing company called Four Masters. This company published several books. One notable book was James Connolly, Portrait of a Rebel Father, written by Nora Connolly O'Brien. Another book published was Alive, Alive-oh by John Molloy.

McMahon also continued to write. He wrote a play for the Abbey Theatre called Gandhi: The Fiery Gates. He also created a television documentary about the Irish leader, James Connolly. Frank McMahon passed away in 1984, leaving behind a legacy of successful plays and contributions to broadcasting.