An American film crew is eyeing Armidale as a key location for a drama they intend making on the life of singer songwriter Peter Allen.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The crew is looking at coming to Armidale in the Spring to discuss, interview and possibly film key locations and people from the famous singer’s life.
Armidale Dumaresq councillor Jim Maher said the first half hour of the two-hour drama would be set in Armidale. A spokeswoman confirmed Council had been approached by a production company about the film.
WARREN Bartik, who organised the Peter Allen Festival with Elaine Kelly in 2009, said if the film went ahead, it would be a boon for Armidale.
“Most people associate Peter Allen with Tenterfield because of the song, Tenterfield Saddler, but few realise Peter moved to Armidale when he was just five weeks old and grew up here,” Mr Bartik said.
“He went to Armidale High School and learned to sing and dance here.”
Allen, who died in 1992 aged 48, was a singer songwriter who won an Oscar for Best Original Song in 1981 for Arthur’s Theme.
Allen was married to Cabaret star Liza Minnelli, but after divorcing, Allen lived with his long-term partner, Gregory Connell. He died from an AIDS-related illness.
Mr Bartik said Allen would also perform at the New England Hotel.
Cr Maher said he hoped residents would take a special pride in the city next month and give their homes and businesses an extra spruce, in case the movie producers came to scout locations.
“It’s all very exciting and it would be a terrific boost for Armidale if scenes from our beautiful town were featured on film,” he said.