Born on 18 March 1896 in Chentshin (Checiny), Kielce Gubernia, Poland.

His father was a melamed (teacher). L. studied in cheders and in primary school. At the age of fourteen, he went by himself to a brother in America.

Here he worked with tailors and learned at night school and became a member of a dramatic club, debuting as "Shimon" in Gordin's "Der vilder mentsh (The Wild Man)".

In 1921 he performed at the Royal Union Theatre as a dresser [tailor], while at the same time acting in small roles, the same in 1922 at the Liberty Theatre.

From 1923 until 1931 he held the same post in the Yiddish Art Theatre (as Samuel Lehrer, ed.) and during this time guest starred for the troupe across the province when he had the opportunity to act in prominent roles in repertory with the Yiddish Art Theatre.

M. E.