The beginning of a 17-year odyssey.

Set in 1937, Kid Stakes is the chronological beginning of Lawler’s trilogy, the start of a theatrical odyssey set on Lawler’s home turf, in Depression-era Carlton. It’s where we first meet Roo, Barney, Olive and Nancy, long before they realise how entwined their lives will become.

Roo and Barney are cane croppers from Queensland who spend their off-season back in Melbourne. They meet Olive and Nancy, two milliners and soon-to-be bartenders, with whom a young romance blossoms and Roo’s first gift of a kewpie doll to Olive is made – the start of a 17-year tradition. Meanwhile, a young child next door, Bubba, watches on; as does Olive’s wise, cantankerous mum, Emma.

Embodying the boldness and vitality of youth, Kid Stakes is a comedy with a big heart, capturing a moment of transition for both the characters and the society in which they live.

Purchase tickets to all three plays in the The Doll Trilogy as a package here.

Our friends at Currency Press have a red-hot offer for the Theatre Royal community! 

Grab 50% off the script of The Doll Trilogy — just enter the code Lawler50 at checkout to claim your discount.

Perfect for theatre lovers who want to revisit this classic on the page before they see it on the stage!
Purchase your script here.

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Limited Industry Allies / Student Member tickets available
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