Ray Lawler has passed away at the age of 103.
The beloved Australian playwright was best known for his groundbreaking play, Summer of the Seventeenth Doll.
The theatre legend died in Melbourne on Wednesday after what was described as a “short illness”.
He is survived by his wife, Jacklyn Kelleher, as well as three children, three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, Herald of the Sun reported.
Tributes poured in following the sad news, with the Melbourne Theatre Company sharing a touching post on Instagram.
“We are saddened to learn of the passing of Ray Lawler, former artistic director of the Melbourne Theatre Company and a pioneer of Australian playwriting,” it said.
‘Lawler’s 1955 play, Summer of the Seventeenth Doll, marked a turning point in the history of Australian theatre, and this legacy continues today, decades later, in the Company’s commitment to fostering new Australian writing.
“Our thoughts are with Ray’s family and friends, and with the theatre community.”
Ray Lawler (pictured) has died aged 103. The beloved Australian playwright was best known for his groundbreaking play, Summer of the Seventeenth Doll.
Fans of the playwright took to the comments below the post to write their own tributes.
“So sad to hear of her passing. The Summer of the Seventeenth Doll had a huge impact on me as a student, it was the first modern work I ever saw… and it’s still so relevant today. The end of an era,” one person wrote.
Another said: “A lovely tribute to an Australian pioneer and luminary. Ok Ray Lawler, thanks for your reflections on Australian life.”
Another added: “We enjoyed it very much. Rest easy, sir.”
The theatre legend died in Melbourne on Wednesday after what was described as a “short illness”.
Summer of the Seventeenth Doll premiered at the Union Theatre, University of Melbourne in 1955. It was made into a film in 1959, starring Angela Lansbury.
The Summer of the Seventeenth Doll premiered at the Union Theatre, University of Melbourne in 1955.
It was made into a film in 1959, starring Angela Lansbury, Anne Baxter, John Mills and Ernest Borgnine.
Lawler has been celebrated for his talents throughout his life in Australia and abroad, having been appointed an Officer of the Australian Order (AO) in 2023.
He was also appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1980.
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