Howard Goorney

Biography

Howard Jacob Goorney (May 11, 1921 – March 29, 2007) was a distinguished actor hailing from Manchester, known for his Jewish heritage and fervent communist beliefs. A pivotal figure in British theatre, Goorney co-founded Joan Littlewood's influential 'Theatre Workshop', which played a significant role in shaping modern theatrical practices. His literary contributions include "The Theatre Workshop Story," published by Methuen, which offers an insightful narrative of the company's formative years and its relocation to the Theatre Royal in Stratford East.

Goorney's theatrical career spanned several decades, during which he took on memorable roles in productions such as Bill Bryden's "The Mysteries" and "Lark Rise to Candleford" at the National Theatre in the 1970s and 1980s. He also made notable appearances on television, including a memorable role in the beloved series "Only Fools and Horses," where he featured in the episode "Knock Knock." His cinematic work is equally impressive, with performances in films like "The Hill," "The Offence," "Blood on Satan's Claw," and the classic musical "Fiddler on the Roof." Through his diverse body of work, Goorney left an indelible mark on the arts, remembered for both his talent and his commitment to his ideological beliefs.