The Summer of the Seventeenth Doll: A Timeless Australian Classic Revived!
Some iconic plays can become burdened by misleading perceptions, almost like relics of the past. Ray Lawler's Summer of the Seventeenth Doll, a groundbreaking Australian play, is a prime example. It's renowned for its authentic portrayal of working-class life, but over time, it has been laden with expectations, making it seem like an outdated masterpiece.
But wait, there's more to this story! When Red Stitch theatre company in St Kilda decided to revive the play, along with its two prequels, Kid Stakes and Other Times, they discovered a vibrant and captivating trilogy.
"These plays aren't just about the grand transformation of a nation," director Ella Caldwell clarifies. "They zoom in on a specific family in a lounge room, navigating their personal struggles during a pivotal period in Australia's history."
The play, set in 1953 Melbourne, introduces us to barmaids Olive and Pearl, awaiting the arrival of canecutters Roo and Barney. It's a heartwarming tradition, with Roo bringing Olive a Kewpie doll each year, but this time, it's the end of an era.
Despite its simple premise, the play's characters and emotions resonate deeply. It was a massive hit at its premiere, touring Australia and even making its way to London's New Theatre, presented by the legendary Laurence Olivier. However, its New York debut and subsequent Hollywood adaptation faced challenges, yet the play's reputation remained untarnished, leading to regular revivals in Australia.
Lawler's prequels, set in the same boarding house, offer a fascinating contrast. They explore the characters' earlier lives, revealing how their unconventional lifestyles clash with societal norms. The trilogy delves into thought-provoking questions: How do you defy societal expectations? And can you sustain this defiance despite personal flaws and insecurities?
While younger audiences might find Lawler's world a bit archaic, it's a significant part of Australian culture. Interestingly, the plays challenge the conservative norms of the Menzies era, showcasing the vibrant, rebellious working-class of Melbourne. And here's a twist: the world of the play is matriarchal, led by the formidable single mother Emma.
Red Stitch's revival offers a unique experience: a marathon of all three plays on Saturdays, allowing audiences to immerse themselves in the trilogy's universe. As Robyn Nevin, a former Sydney Theatre Company director, said, "It's an unforgettable experience to see all three plays in one day."
This immersive format particularly highlights the female characters' strength and resilience. Caldwell explains, "You develop a deeper connection with characters like Nancy, Olive, and Emma, understanding their struggles and determination."
Audiences can also choose their own adventure, watching the plays individually or in any order. Some might prefer to start with the original and work backward, experiencing the emotional journey of the characters. Others may opt for a single play, a bite-sized piece of theatre history.
Caldwell's favorite, Other Times, was once considered problematic but now serves as a poignant reminder of the war's impact. It's a powerful trilogy, as Prendergast describes, "a beautiful advocacy for a world that's fading away."
Don't miss this chance to binge-watch theatre and explore a lost era. The Doll trilogy is a testament to the enduring power of Australian storytelling.
