Monty Python's giant dead parrot model in London
A giant parrot appeared in London today (14th July 2014), and the Norwegian Blue looked distinctly deceased.
The dead parrot at the centre of the famous Monty Python sketch performed by John Cleese and Michael Palin was recreated on a giant scale by the TV channel Gold to publicise the screening of the very last Monty Python live show on Sunday.
The mammoth model of the 'Norwegian Blue' was revealed after a survey of fans determined the 'ex-parrot' routine was Monty Python's best sketch (full top 10).
The famous script, which was first broadcast on 7 December 1969, has been reprised by the group for their live shows at the O2 Arena this month.
The sculpture, which is made from fibre glass and measures 15 metres from the tip of its tail to the top of its head, took a team of three sculptors over two months to design, construct and paint. It caused a stir amongst London commuters as it was hung upside down by a crane before being respectfully laid to rest on its back near Tower Bridge.
The model is now on its way to the O2 Arena, where it will be installed for the week so fans attending the final run of live shows will be able to take pictures standing next to it.
Lead sculptor Iain Prendergast says "We are all Monty Python fans so we were delighted to receive the brief from Gold to recreate the mythical 'Norwegian Blue' on a giant scale. We watched both live and televised versions of the sketch and found that there have been a number of different incarnations of the parrot with a variety of different plumages. Our sculpture provides a colourful hybrid of the dead parrots which have featured in the celebrated sketch. The key challenge for us was capturing the comedy value of the dead parrot, keeping the realism of the bird whilst also adding touches like the bloodshot, 'stunned' eyes."
Steve North from Gold adds "We believe that our giant dead parrot provides a fitting tribute to a sketch that is so loved by audiences throughout the world. We hope that fans will join us for the final Monty Python performance this Sunday to see Britain's greatest ever comedy group bow out in style."
Gold will be broadcasting backstage at Monty Python Live (Mostly) from 7pm on Sunday 20th July, with the main live stream starting at 7:30pm.
Below is video footage and a couple of pictures of the parrot sculpture being hoisted at Potters Fields:
