Summer of the Seventeenth Doll Trilogy Revived in Melbourne After 70 Years
Ray Lawler's seminal play, Summer of the Seventeenth Doll, continues to resonate with audiences seven decades after its debut. Originally staged in 1955, this drama has been hailed as a transformative work in Australian theatre, presenting an authentic portrayal of working-class life. Now, it is being revived in Melbourne as part of the Doll Trilogy, alongside its prequels Kid Stakes and Other Times, offering a fresh perspective on its enduring themes.
A Classic Reimagined for Modern Audiences
Directed by Ella Caldwell, the revival by Red Stitch theatre company challenges the grandiose narratives often attached to the play. Caldwell emphasizes that the trilogy is not about national transformation but focuses on intimate family struggles within a specific historical context. Set in a Carlton boarding house in 1953, the story follows barmaids Olive and Pearl as they await the annual visit of cane-cutters Roo and Barney, a tradition marked by the gift of a Kewpie doll that symbolizes their unconventional lifestyle.
The play's initial success was unprecedented, touring nationally and gaining acclaim in London's West End, though its New York premiere and subsequent Hollywood adaptation faced challenges. Despite this, its reputation has endured, with regular revivals in Australia every decade. The trilogy format allows audiences to delve deeper into the characters' lives, exploring themes of societal expectations, self-delusion, and resilience.
Subversive Elements and Cultural Impact
Lawler's work is more subversive than often remembered, critiquing the national character through vibrant, working-class characters who defy societal norms. The female roles, particularly flinty matriarch Emma, are highlighted in this revival, showcasing their strength and complexity. Robyn Nevin, who played Emma in a 2011 production, notes that experiencing all three plays in one day is unforgettable, offering a profound immersion into the trilogy's world.
The revival includes marathon sessions on Saturdays, allowing audiences to binge-watch the trilogy, dubbed binge theatre by actor Ben Prendergast. This approach deepens the emotional impact, with Caldwell praising Other Times as a moving exploration of post-war loss and optimism. The plays remain relevant, with their vernacular and themes resonating across generations, advocating for a world that is now lost but still poignant.
Running until April 11 at Red Stitch theatre in Melbourne, this revival reaffirms the timeless appeal of Lawler's masterpiece, proving that great theatre can crackle with life long after its creation.
