Ray Lawler, Influential Australian Playwright, Dies at 103

Ray Lawler, the esteemed Australian playwright known for his influential work 'Summer of the Seventeenth Doll', passed away at the age of 103 in Melbourne after a brief illness. His play, which debuted in 1955, is acclaimed for its authentic portrayal of Australian life and marked a significant shift in the country's theatrical landscape. Lawler's contributions earned him several accolades, including the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1980 and the Order of Australia (OA) in 2023. He was a foundational figure in the establishment of the Union Theatre Repertory Company, which evolved into the Melbourne Theatre Company. Tributes from the theatre community highlight his profound impact and legacy, with many recognizing 'The Doll' as a crucial milestone in Australian drama. Lawler is survived by his wife, three children, and several grandchildren.