An Armidale boy who grew up to become one of Australia’s most celebrated entertainers has been honoured with a Blue Plaque at the newly renovated Armidale Folk Museum.
Peter Allen, born in nearby Tenterfield in 1944, spent his childhood in Armidale, where he first learned piano and dancing. The plaque recognises his enduring connection to the region and his remarkable rise to international stardom.
His first public performances came at just 11 years old, playing piano in the ladies’ lounge of a local pub. He later honed his signature dance moves at classes held in the former Armidale Literary Institute, the building now home to the revamped Folk Museum.
Allen went on to write world-famous songs including Go To Rio, I Honestly Love You, and I Still Call Australia Home. He became a trailblazing figure in the LGBTQIA+ community, particularly during the 1980s AIDS epidemic, before dying of throat cancer related to the disease at just 48 years old.
NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water Director for Heritage Elizabeth Owers said the honour reflected an extraordinary life.
“Who would have thought a boy from humble beginnings in regional NSW during the height of World War II could rise to the top of the charts,” Ms Owers said.
“Peter Allen’s hard work and tenacity took him from simple piano gigs in Armidale to headlining sold-out shows around the world.”
Ms Owers said Allen’s legacy deserved to be kept alive.
“He overcame huge adversity to become part of Australian music folklore, which is why we are delighted he has been awarded a Blue Plaque,” Ms Owers said.
“It’s hard to believe he died more than 30 years ago but this commemoration helps keeps the spirit of Peter Allen well and truly alive.”
Critically acclaimed performer Todd McKenney, a long-time Peter Allen interpreter, said the recognition was fitting.
“It’s so appropriate for one of Australia’s preeminent showmen to be honoured with a Blue Plaque in the town he grew up in, Armidale,” Mr McKenney said.
“This fabulous performer, songwriter, dancer, a man whose music I’ve interpreted for decades, holds a very special place in many Australian (and international) hearts, and in my own.
“The Blue Plaque is an apt reminder of his ongoing legacy,” Mr McKenney said.
The Allen plaque is one of more than 60 located across NSW that commemorate remarkable people, groups and events. More information is available at blueplaques.nsw.gov.au
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