Dr Pamela Wall AO, a prominent South Australian philanthropist and arts advocate, has committed $10 million to the Adelaide Festival Centre Foundation, marking the largest donation to the performing arts in South Australia’s history and the most substantial individual gift to a performing arts centre in Australia, earmarked specifically for programming.
This remarkable contribution promises a thriving future for artists and the South Australian community, supporting arts and events programming at Adelaide Festival Centre for years ahead, including its cherished festivals—DreamBIG Children’s Festival, Adelaide Cabaret Festival, Adelaide Guitar Festival, First Nations programming, and OzAsia Festival.
Dr Pamela Wall AO: “I am a big believer in the power of the arts in bringing joy to the community and gathering people together. Ian and I loved spending time at the theatre, and I have so many fond memories of seeing shows at Adelaide Festival Centre and Her Majesty’s Theatre, both hold a special place in my heart. My hope is that future generations of artists and all audiences can continue to come together at this vibrant cultural hub to create, experience and enjoy the magic of live performance.”
Together with her late husband Ian, Pamela has been a steadfast supporter of Adelaide Festival Centre, notably contributing $1 million to the redevelopment of Her Majesty’s Theatre, funding the Ian and Pamela Wall Gallery atop the historic Grote Street venue. They also established a permanent fund to enhance arts access for children and students through the Centre’s youth and family initiatives.
Adelaide Festival Centre CEO & Artistic Director Douglas Gautier AM: “We are extremely grateful for this extraordinarily generous contribution from Pamela Wall to the Adelaide Festival Centre Foundation, one of the most significant philanthropic contributions to the arts in SA. This gift demonstrates the belief Pamela has in the arts shaping the future of South Australia’s cultural landscape and providing more opportunities for artists and audiences of all backgrounds to experience our programs at Adelaide Festival Centre – the heart of the arts.”
Adelaide Festival Centre Foundation Executive Director Abbie Taylor: “Pamela and Ian Wall have been dedicated supporters of Adelaide Festival Centre, and their generosity will leave an inspiring legacy. This extraordinary gift will provide lasting financial support for the Centre’s programs, ensuring the arts remain a vital part of our community and are enjoyed by all South Australians for generations to come. We are deeply grateful for their belief in the power of the arts to connect, uplift, and inspire.”
Pamela Wall has a passion for encouraging and nurturing the next generation of bright stars and providing arts experiences for children of all ages. Having worked as a nurse at the Women’s and Children’s Hospital in her early career, Pamela went on to work alongside husband Ian and served on the board of Codan for 20 years, a globally successful communications technology company. Her philanthropic contributions to various organisations have seen her recognised with a Medal of the Order of Australia and appointment as an Officer of the Order of Australia for distinguished service to the community through charitable support and philanthropic contributions.
More information can be found at Adelaide Festival Centre Foundation.
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