Lawler, Ray (1921 -…), an Australian dramatist, wrote the Summer of the Seventeenth Doll, perhaps the single most important play in Australian drama. The play was first performed in Melbourne, Australia, in 1955. It was also staged in London, England, in 1957 and in New York City in 1958. It was the first Australian drama to gain international recognition.
Summer of the Seventeenth Doll is a brilliant character study that marks the establishment of the realist play in Australian literature. It deals with two cane cutters and their girlfriends in Melbourne, exploring the accepted Australian myth of the superiority of the rugged outdoor type. The plot is entertaining, taking unpredictable turns and ending unconventionally. The touches of irony, wisdom, and humor in the dialogue add to the play’s realistic effect. Tense situations, clearly defined characters, and brilliant movement and structure make this play a vivid and effective drama. Lawler’s characters speak what seems to be authentic, casual, Australian speech.
Lawler later wrote two more plays with the same characters, forming the “Doll” trilogy. They are Kid Stakes (1975) and Other Times (1976). Lawler’s other plays include The Piccadilly Bushman (1959), The Unshaven Cheek (1963), A Breach in the Wall (1967), The Man Who Shot the Albatross (1972), and Godsend (1982).
Raymond Evenor Lawler was born in Melbourne. He left school at the age of 13 and worked for an engineering firm. Later, he became a stage manager and then an actor and producer.
In 2022, Lawler was made an Officer of the Order of Australia for his distinguished service to the performing arts as an actor, playwright, and director. The Order of Australia is Australia’s highest award for service to the country or to humanity.
