Horner, Harry

Biography

Horner was born on July 24, 1912 in Holic, Czechoslovakia. He graduated from the University of Vienna (1934) and studied acting and directing at Max Reinhardt's Theatrical Seminary, Vienna (1933-35). Horner made his theatrical debut playing the role of the "Fascist" and serving as scenic designer for productions at the Political Cabaret in Vienna (1932). He served as assistant to Arturo Toscanini for the production of The Magic Flute (Salzburg Festival, 1937) and designed sets for the Metropolitan Opera of New York and the San Francisco Opera, as well as theatrical productions of Victoria Regina, Iron Men, and Star and Garter. Horner won Academy awards for his art direction for the films The Heiress (1949), The Hustler (1961), and They Shoot Horses, Don't They? (1969); and received nominations for Our Town (1940), The Little Foxes (1941), A Double Life (1948), Born Yesterday (1950), and Separate Tables (1958). He directed numerous television series, including episodes of Gunsmoke . He was a member of the Art Directors Guild and United Scenic Artists Local 829.

From the guide to the Harry Horner papers, 1938-1957, (University of California, Los Angeles. Library Special Collections.)