Life-size Barry Humphries sculpture poised to greet guests at Adelaide’s Her Majesty’s Theatre

A tribute to Barry Humphries is set to transform the entrance to Adelaide's Her Majesty's Theatre, the late entertainer’s favourite venue. See the design.

Barry Humphries promoting the Adelaide Cabaret Festival in 2015. Picture: Claudio Raschella

A commemorative $300,000 life-size bronze sculpture of Australian entertainer and comedian Barry Humphries could soon greet guests outside of Her Majesty’s Theatre.

At its meeting on Tuesday night, Adelaide City Council will consider the final proposal for the artwork, honouring the late performer and his connection to the city and Grote St theatre.

The cost of the sculpture, by renowned South Australian artist Robert Hannaford, will be split evenly between the council, Adelaide Festival Centre Trust and state government.

Australian artist Robert Hannaford with a concept maquette of the Barry Humphries statue. Picture: Exhibition Studios.

Humphries had a long association with the Adelaide Festival Centre and Her Majesty’s Theatre, which began in 1953, and described it as his favourite place in the world to perform.

He was widely known for performing as his two alter egos, Dame Edna Everage and Sir Les Patterson, but also held his own as a writer, an actor and a painter.

Barry Humphries as Dame Edna Everage. Picture: Dave M. Benett/Getty Images

Barry Humphries as Les Patterson. Picture: Torsten Blackwood

In December 2023, Cr Carmel Noon successfully requested the council investigate a life-size sculpture to be installed at the theatre’s entrance.

At the time, she told The Advertiser that Humphries deserved the recognition for his love of Her Majesty's Theatre and as patron of its redevelopment fund.

The council report details the sculpture depicts Humphries with an open stance and a raised arm tipping his hat in greeting and conveying his showmanship.

A visualisation of what the Barry Humphries statue would look like outside of Her Majesty's Theatre. Picture: Exhibition Studios

The Estate and family of Mr Humphries have supported the proposed sculpture by Hannaford, whose work includes the bronze Queen Elizabeth II sculpture at Government House.

The council administration has recommended elected members approve the final endorsement and council budget approval to enable the artist to proceed with fabrication and installation.

Originally published as Life-size Barry Humphries sculpture poised to greet guests at Adelaide’s Her Majesty’s Theatre