Vic: Dame Edna celebrates 50 years as Australia's First Lady

AAP General News (Australia)
08-23-2006
Vic: Dame Edna celebrates 50 years as Australia's First Lady

MELBOURNE, Aug 23 AAP - It was a touch of class, colliding with the common.

Australia's favourite bogans Kath and Kim today joined Australia's self-styled first
lady Dame Edna Everage, as comedian Barry Humphries launched a new show marking 50 years
in showbiz, as well as that of his alter ego.

Kath - actress Jane Turner - said Dame Edna was "not just an icon but eye candy" and
as Australia's most famous housewife, was a role model for Melbourne women.

"She's a hornbag, she's a foxy-moron," said Kim - comedienne Gina Riley - at Melbourne's
Town Hall.

Dame Edna was equally complimentary but admitted it was a bit embarrassing sharing
the limelight with Kath and Kim, who she described, in a hushed tone, as "common".

Earlier, Dame Edna was presented with the Key to the City of Melbourne by Lord Mayor
John So, in recognition of a 50-year contribution to promoting the city.

Scores of fans waving gladioli cheered as she pulled up outside the Town Hall before
the presentation and a balcony appearance worthy of the Royal family at Buckingham Palace.

"I really should have been given the swipe card to Melbourne," Dame Edna joked.

"I have a deep affection for the city - I snuck in when the door was ajar."

The new show, Barry Humphries and Friends Back With A Vengeance, premieres at Melbourne
Art Centre's state theatre on December 19.

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