Ronald Tavel, writer, lyricist, and poet, was born in New York City in May 1941. He attended Brooklyn College and the University of Wyoming.
His first published work Christina's World, a three act verse play, was published in 1958. Among his other theater productions are Gorilla Queen, Kitchenette, The Life of Juanita Castro, Screen Test, Secrets of the Citizens Correction Committee, Shower, and Vinyl Visits an FM Station. His plays have been produced by leading avant-garde troupes throughout the world, among them the Caffe Cino, American Place Theatre, and the Theatre of the Ridiculous (which he founded in July 1965). Tavel has written the scenarios for various films produced and directed by Andy Warhol, notably Harlot, Suicide, Horse, Space, Withering Sights, and The Chelsea Girls. In addition he has published articles and essays on film and poetry and a novel, Street of Stairs.
He is currently a lecturer for the New York State Council on the Arts.
