... including Glasgow comedy festival

Dame Edna Everage creator Barry Humphries has cancelled all live work for the next six months, following complications over appendix surgery.

The decision includes the housewife superstar’s only UK date this year – at the Glasgow Comedy Festival on March 21.

But a full tour of North America had also been planned, including dates in Texas, California and New York, under the title Live and Intimate.

Humprhies, 73, had his appendix removed over the New Year in Sydney. However, there have been complications and he is expected to return to hospital this week – and has then been ordered to rest for six months.

However, Humphries – who was made a CBE in last year’s Birthday Honours – made light of his situation, issuing a statement as Dame Edna.

It said: ‘Dear Loyal Possums.No woman is indestructible, not even me I am afraid.

‘The other day my personal Doctor, after the usual check-up, told me there was a little feminine procedure I needed that could not wait. “What about my wee Scottish possums, and my adoring fans in Glasgow? I have a big gig scheduled and I can't let them down!”

‘“They all love you Dame Edna, and they will wait as Scotland has been waiting for centuries,” said Dr Shadenfreude.

‘So if we have to take a rain check it is better that you see me alive rather than the alternative. “You will be back at the height of your powers”, said the Doctor, with an encouraging glint in his speculum. So I will Darlings, so I will.’

Linda Allan, co-ordinator of the Glasgow comedy festival, added: 'We are extremely disappointed that Dame Edna can't visit her McPossums this year and we wish her a speedy recovery. However she has assured us that she has every intention of making it to the 2009 Magners Glasgow International Comedy Festival – and all tickets will be valid for that date.'

>> Barry Humprhries biography.

Published: 13 Jan 2008