Ethel Lang (actress)


Ethel Isabel Lang , also known as Ethel Brunton, was an Australian actress prominent as a pioneering local radio performer during the 1930s, but also appeared in numerous stage roles. From the age of seven she appeared in school plays and concerts before being asked to play Napoleon's son in The Royal Divorce. Stage roles included Shakespeare's Macbeth and The Merchant of Venice

Radio career

Her career in radio began in 1924, and while raising a family during The Depression, World War II and beyond, she had an independent career:
Like her husband James Brunton Gibb, she was generous in her support of charitable events, notably Legacy. On occasion, she adjudicated at eisteddfods and produced performances by the Brunton Gibb Players, when she used her married name.

Recognition

She was made a Member of the Order of Australia in 1992 for services to the arts and community.

Personal life

Lang married actor and elocution teacher James Brunton Gibb on 1 September 1923; they frequently appeared on stage together. Their children were:
The whole family used "Brunton" as though it were part of their surname.

Family

Peter and Wendy Brunton Gibb both excelled in elocution.
Wendy appeared in the 1949 film Sons of Matthew, left for London and joined Dan O'Connor's British Commonwealth Players and in 1953 became Mrs Michael Benge.
Barbara was educated at Fort Street High School and worked as a radio and stage actress associated with Doris Fitton's Independent Theatre and Mercury Theatre
David became Professor of Anaesthetics and Intensive Care at UNSW in 2001. He is commemorated at Sydney High School by the David Brunton Gibb Prize for Soccer.