Image: Patti Newton taken by Cassie Ackerman
The Adelaide Festival Centre has unveiled the latest additions to its illustrious Walk of Fame, honouring outstanding performers whose talents illuminated its stages throughout 2023.
South Australian entertainer Hans (Matt Gilbertson) has been selected for the Adelaide Festival Centre’s Walk of Fame Public Choice star. Joining him are accomplished singer-songwriter and Barkindji woman Nancy Bates, recipient of the Critics’ Choice star, and legendary Australian entertainer Patti Newton AM.
Australia’s favourite Berlin boy-wonder and award-winning performer Hans won the Public Choice for his performance in Disco Spektakular Tour 2023. Nancy Bates won the Critics’ Choice star for her performance in Still Talking ‘Bout a Revolution. Last year, Patti Newton AM was presented with Adelaide Festival Centre Trust’s Choice for the Walk of Fame star while she was in Adelaide performing the role of Bird Woman in Mary Poppins.
“There are so many people I admire and look up to named on the Walk of Fame, so to now be joining them is a very special moment for me. It’s also very humbling to be given the Public Choice star. I feel very lucky to have such a loyal audience here in Adelaide and I’m thrilled that they’ll now be able to walk all over me for years to come,” Hans said.
Nancy Bates said that the award for her achievement was significant for Indigenous women in music.
“I am stunned to receive the news that I have been awarded a place on the Adelaide Festival Centre’s Walk of Fame, alongside so many renowned artists,” Bates said.
“I hope this speaks volumes to First Nations women in music, that an Independent Artist, without the support of a major music label, can be recognised for her activism, her truth, and her deep commitment to utilising music for social impact.”
These esteemed artists will join over 130 luminaries who have graced the stages of Adelaide Festival Centre since its inception in 1973.
Every year, three stars are added to the walkway in the form of bronze plaques – one determined by public choice, and two selected by the Adelaide Festival Centre Trust and a panel of arts critics. Previous recipients include a constellation of talent such as William Barton, Annette Shun Wah, Billy Crystal, and Olivia Newton-John, among others.
“The Walk of Fame showcases the names of some of the best and brightest artists and creators who have been part of performances at Adelaide Festival Centre,” Adelaide Festival Centre CEO & Artistic Director Douglas Gautier AM, said.
“It was a pleasure to review the remarkable works from 2023 and we congratulate Hans, Nancy Bates, and Patti Newton AM who all contributed to Adelaide Festival Centre’s 50th-anniversary celebrations.”
Minister for Arts, the Hon. Andrea Michaels MP, extended her congratulations, emphasising the international appeal of Hans and the significance of recognition for local talent.
“Congratulations to Hans on being chosen by the people of South Australia to receive a star on the Walk of Fame. The iconic international superstar from Berlin and beloved adopted South Australian will have his name rightly shine forever on the Adelaide Festival Centre’s Walk of Fame. I’d also like to congratulate Nancy Bates and Patti Newton on being awarded their place on our Walk of Fame,” she said.
For more information about the Adelaide Festival Centre Walk of Fame, head here.
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