Ronald Cass

British writer (1923–2006)

Ronald Cass (21 April 1923 – 2 June 2006), also known as Ronnie Cass, was a British screenwriter, composer, playwright, novelist and music director. He co wrote the screenplays for the Cliff Richard films The Young Ones (1961) and Summer Holiday (1963).

Cass was born in Llanelli, Wales, to Saul and Rachel Cass, the second of five sons. One of his brothers, Leslie Cass, also worked in the same field as Ronnie, and composed his own play entitled The Story of Ruth, which was performed in Sheffield. His family was Jewish, and he was himself a member of the New London Synagogue. Cass first pursued a career as a maths teacher but in 1951 was recognized more for his contributions to several musicals produced at Leicester Square's Irving Theatre club. Cass was studying economics at Aberystwyth University when World War II began and he joined the RAF. When he and his squadron were posted in Burma, he insisted that they take a piano with them so that he could continue entertaining the troops. Cass returned to Wales after the war ended in 1945, but travelled to London in 1949 in search of musical opportunities. It did not take much searching before Cecil Landeau hired him as musical director at Ciro's night club, and it was there that Cass met Peter Myers, who was preparing a new revue. They soon put together a successful after the show show called 10:15 at the Irving Theatre.

Ronald Cass married actress Valerie Carton in 1955, and had three children, Debbie, Stephen and Nicola, and four grandchildren, Joseph, Rachel, Leila and Benji. He died in June 2006, at the age of 83.