BREAKING: Melbourne is gearing up for a spectacular exhibition titled Diva, showcasing iconic costumes from legendary performers. Set to open on December 11, 2023, this exhibition will mark the launch of the Australian Museum of Performing Arts (AMPA), located within the Arts Centre’s Hamer Hall.
This groundbreaking exhibition features a stunning collection, including Nellie Melba’s gown, Marilyn Monroe’s dress from Some Like It Hot, and Rihanna’s jewel-encrusted papal robes. With artifacts sourced from the prestigious Victoria and Albert Museum and AMPA’s own impressive collection of 850,000 pieces, Diva promises to be a must-see for art and music fans alike.
The term “diva,” originally Italian for “goddess,” has often been used negatively to describe demanding women. However, Sandra Bruce, AMPA’s director of collections and exhibitions, aims to reclaim this narrative. “There’s nothing wrong with being extraordinarily successful and autonomous,” she stated, emphasizing the strength of the women featured in the exhibition.
AMPA will utilize nearly 500 square metres of space, previously occupied by an Italian restaurant, to display a curated selection of costumes and memorabilia. The museum’s establishment comes as the Arts Centre seeks to recover from significant losses of $43 million across the 2023 and 2024 financial years. Admission to the exhibition will be ticketed, providing a much-needed revenue boost.
Highlights of the Diva exhibition include:
– A Jean-Phillipe Worth gown worn by Dame Nellie Melba in Otello (1900).
– A striking ensemble worn by Maria Callas in Norma (1952).
– The iconic fringed black dress worn by Marilyn Monroe in Some Like It Hot (1959).
– A dazzling canary-yellow jumpsuit worn by Ella Fitzgerald from the 1960s.
– Costumes by Bob Mackie, including looks worn by Cher, Tina Turner, and P!nk.
– Rihanna’s high-fashion Met Gala look, designed by John Galliano.
– Whitney Houston’s stunning dress from the Grammy Awards (1994).
– Kylie Minogue’s eye-catching red catsuit from the Padam Padam video (2023).
The exhibition will also feature multimedia presentations with photos and videos of the divas in their celebrated outfits, enhancing the visitor experience.
As excitement builds for this significant cultural event, Melbourne prepares to celebrate the women who have transformed the performing arts landscape. Keep an eye out for ticket information and be part of a celebration that redefines what it means to be a diva.
