As I mentioned in last month’s column, each year the Friends of the National Library of Australia hold a celebration to commemorate the contribution that a distinguished individual has made to the Australian book world. This person can be a writer, publisher, illustrator or printer. The achievements of Alec Bolton, Geoffrey Serle, Katharine Brisbane, Ruth Park, Rosemary Dobson, David Malouf, Michael Leunig, Tim Winton and Mem Fox have been honoured in previous years. As part of the celebration, the Friends and the Library publish a small book—free to all members of the Friends organisation—in honour of the person being celebrated. This year the Friends are very pleased to commemorate the playwright David Williamson’s contribution to Australian letters. There is no doubt that his work has made him eminent amongst Australia’s finest living writers. His plays, from Don’s Party and The Club, to the more recent Up for Grabs and Soulmates, and his screenplays such as Gallipoli, The Year of Living Dangerously and Phar Lap, have cemented his reputation as a dramatist both in Australia and overseas. In addition, David has honoured the National Library with the gift of his papers; it is fitting that the person the Friends celebrate should figure so prominently in the Library’s collection. The Celebration book this year has been compiled by Katharine Brisbane AM, publisher and theatre critic, and includes contributions from John Clark AM, Director of NIDA since 1969; Wayne Harrison, the London-based writer, director and producer; playwright, journalist and theatre critic Leonard Radic; and accomplished actor Glenn Hazeldine. The Celebration afternoon is taking place on Sunday 23 November 2003 at 2.00 pm in the National Library Theatre. The afternoon will include a keynote speech by Kate Fitzpatrick outlining David’s life and contribution to Australian drama, readings from David’s works and an acknowledgment from the guest of honour. Those who attend will then join David and his colleagues in the Foyer for book-signings and afternoon tea. Book early and don’t miss your chance to meet David Williamson. §§§ Just a quick reminder for next month: the Annual General Meeting of the Friends of the National Library of Australia Inc. will be held at 6.00 pm on Tuesday 9 December in the National Library Theatre, followed by the Friends Christmas Party. All members are encouraged to attend. See you there. JAMES
HALLIGAN |
| Back to NLA News Index | Back to November Issue | Back to NLA Home Page |
To order a particular issue of
the NLA News e-mail nlasales@nla.gov.au
or join the Friends of the National
Library of Australia and receive a copy each month by mail.