Jez Butterworth wrote Jerusalem, a melancholic yet humorous play published during 2009 by Nick Hern Books. This play's setting and story plot are rooted in an English country community involving gangs and gypsies, among other things. Specifically, this play explores rural life in England, centered on Johnny Byron, a rather egotistical and morally perplexed man wanted by the local officials.
Some readers of the play describe it as more boring and tedious than the edgy and daring approach Butterworth was going for. Yet other readers are drawn to the vivid depictions of life in England. Jerusalem premiered at the Royal Court Theatre in London and later won the 2009 Evening Standard Award for Best Play. It eventually appeared on Broadway at the Music Box Theatre during 2011.
Besides Jerusalem, Butterworth has authored several other creative works, such as Mojo, The River, The Winterling, Parlour Song, and The Night Heron. He has won additional awards, including the E. M. Forster Award from the American Academy of Arts and Letters.
