It is often called the most significant play in Australian theatre history.

That’s a pretty good rap.

And it’s playing in Bairnsdale this week.

Summer of the Seventeenth Doll plays at the Forge Theatre and Arts Hub, next to the BARC in Bairnsdale, on Thursday, 15 September at 7:30pm.

Ray Lawler’s much loved tale of two Queensland cane cutters who for 16 years have traveled back to Melbourne for five months of partying and romance with their barmaid girlfriends, spawned a new age of Australian writing, because the characters and their dilemmas are so true, so beautifully observed, so humorous and so poignant.

Tickets and more info are at www.eastgippsland.vic.gov.au/leisure/whats-on-and-buy-tickets

Springtime Spectacular

Sticking with the performing arts, on Sunday, 18 September, St Mary’s Catholic Church in Bairnsdale hosts “Springtime Spectacular,” featuring Opera Australia and Vic Opera Singers, Baritone Nathan Lay and Soprano Kate Amos, and the Casey Ladies Choir.

Powerful music in a visually striking venue.

That sounds awesome.

Bookings are essential. Phone Andrea on 0409 771 526 or drop into the Book Orchard at 166 Main St, Bairnsdale.

But these are just two of many good things happening in your community over the next few weeks.

Here’s the full list.

East Gippsland - get stuck into it.