Often billed as Australia’s greatest literary genius, Henry Lawson resided in Leeton for just under two years. Henry Lawson (disguised by Geoffrey Graham) will be returning to Leeton for the Art Deco Festival, appearing at Henry Lawson Cottage over the weekend.
It is quite appropriate for Geoffrey to be returning to Leeton – for just as Henry returns to Leeton, Geoffrey previously spent 4 years in Yanco (1976 – 1980) lecturing Agribusiness at Yanco agricultural College.
It was January 1916 when Henry Lawson and his housekeeper Mrs Byers arrived in Leeton, who resided at farm 418, Daalbata Rd Leeton. But why? Why Leeton?
For many years, Lawson had suffered from depression and alcoholism. The town of Leeton had just been established to support the growing irrigation system and like many other country towns, was subject to prohibition laws – banning alcohol within its boundaries.
Henry’s stay in Leeton was a positive and productive time. Those close to Lawson had hoped that removal from the temptations of the city might help him recover his creative powers, however the sly grog trade within the area made alcohol readily available.
Geoffrey brings to life the works of Henry Lawson to delight, intrigue and to create an understanding and affinity with this work that otherwise may elude modern Aussies. Geoffrey has always been passionate about performing and has studied the art of acting and entertaining. His acting, whip cracking, characterisations and down-to-earth style, allowed him to entertain a wide range of audiences.
Geoffrey Graham (as Henry) will be performing at Henry Lawson Cottage as part of the Art Deco Festival on Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 July at 12pm & 1pm.
