"A Thousand Clowns" is a play written by Herb Gardner that premiered in 1962. The story revolves around Murray Burns, a free-spirited man who struggles to balance his unconventional lifestyle with societal expectations. He lives with his young nephew, Nick, and faces pressure from social workers to conform to a more traditional way of life. The play explores themes of individuality, family, and the challenges of adulthood. As Murray navigates his relationships with Nick and other characters, he ultimately seeks to define what it means to be a responsible guardian while staying true to himself.