Parks has Elvis, Trundle has ABBA – and now, Tenterfield may soon have Peter Allen.
Plans are underway to bring the story of the iconic Australian performer to the forefront in the New England region, with a new festival proposed to celebrate his life and legacy.
Event organiser Charles Adler said the idea came to him while driving through Tenterfield and realising the cultural significance of the town.
“We turned onto the main street up to the side street, and I thought ‘sh**, this is Peter Allen territory’,” he said.
“We came across the Saddlery and Peter Allen’s memorabilia and was just amazed that there wasn’t more being done to promote this wonderful Australian’s contribution to Tenterfield, the arts, and the community and the promotion of Australia.”
Inspired to take action, Adler connected with local council representatives, residents and business owners to gather support. A tentative festival date has been set for September.
“It’ll be a celebration of Peter Allen and his music,” he said. “We want to appreciate and recognize the man and his story and what he did for the arts and music in Australia.”
Best known for songs such as I Still Call Australia Home and Tenterfield Saddler, Allen achieved international fame. Adler believes Tenterfield is the natural place to honour his legacy.
“It’s been done twice before. I think the community is probably learned from those previous efforts and I think post Covid and an inclination for people to begin to get together more often at events and festivals.”
Adler and his wife, Tracy, will host a community meet-and-greet this Saturday, 17 January, at the Royal Hotel in Tenterfield from 2pm to 5pm.
“I encourage everybody to give us their input. We want this to be a completely community inspired project.” “I really want the whole of the New England and the Tenterfield area to actually own this as one of theirs.”
Looking beyond the festival, Adler also hopes to establish a Peter Allen-themed memorabilia shop and an annual endowment to support emerging artists.
“I think that would be a great way into the future to be recognizing Peter Allen’s contribution to the arts in Australia.” said Adler.
For more information or to follow along, visit The Peter Allen Festival Facebook page.
Like what you’re reading? Support New England Times by making a small contribution today and help us keep delivering local news paywall-free. Donate now