DIVA Exhibition Opens the Australian Museum of Performing Arts
I hope you’re ready, Melbourne — the curtain has risen on one of the most glamorous exhibitions ever to hit our shores. The brand-new Australian Museum of Performing Arts (AMPA) has opened its doors at Hamer Hall with an Australian exclusive: DIVA, direct from London’s Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A).
Melbourne DIVA Exhibition
A Star-Studded Celebration of Performance and Power
Opened on 11 December 2025, DIVA is an international blockbuster exhibition celebrating the creativity, ambition and resilience of history’s most iconic performers. From 19th-century opera goddesses to today’s pop powerhouses, it shines a spotlight on the trailblazers who’ve used their talent and courage to change the stage — and the world.
With more than 250 spectacular objects — including 60 dazzling costumes, plus jewellery, photography, art and music — the DIVA exhibition promises an unforgettable journey through performance history.
The exhibition runs until 26 April 2026, giving us plenty of time for a visit (or two).
For a sneak peek at the exhibition, watch our video on Facebook here.
Diane’s review
A Date with the Diva
The definition of a Diva in 2015 was updated in the Oxford English Dictionary to include “a person, typically a woman who is self-important, temperamental, and extremely demanding.“
I like Beyonce’s definition better. “A true Diva is graceful and talented, and strong and fearless and brave, and someone with humility.”
The Diva exhibition at Hamer Hall was amazing. Once your eye’s adjusted to the darkness of the space you were transported down memory lane. The first costume was one of Dame Nellie Melba’s from the late 19th century. In pristine condition. You then embraced the Australian costumes worn by Olivia Newtown John, Cate Blanchett, Jessica Mauboy and of course Kylie Minogue to name a few. Some of the international costumes worn by Lady Gaga, Cher, Grace Jones, Rihanna and Barbra Streisand along with Dancers and Showgirl’s were stunning.
There are too many to describe but what impressed me the most was not just viewing the beauty of each costume but getting up close and seeing the creativity and clever people who put these costumes, headpieces and accessories together, beautiful beading, sequins, rhinestones, lace, feathers and of course the fabrics.
If you have an interest in opera stars to pop icons costumes and history of same you must go and visit this fabulous exhibition.It’s being held in the Australian Museum of Performing Arts (Ground level of Hamer Hall) up until the 26th April 2026.
The Meaning of ‘Diva’
Curated by V&A Senior Curator Kate Bailey, DIVA explores how the meaning of the word has evolved over time — from its Italian origins meaning goddess, to its modern-day celebration of creative power and individuality.
The exhibition doesn’t just showcase extraordinary performers — it examines how each “diva” challenged expectations, redefined gender and performance, and inspired fans across generations. It’s a story of glamour and grit, courage and creativity.
The Stars Take the Stage
The exhibition reads like a who’s who of entertainment royalty. Expect showstopping moments from:
Maria Callas, Judy Garland, Joan Crawford, Dame Nellie Melba, Grace Jones, Cher, Prince, Tina Turner, Elton John, Madonna, Kylie Minogue, Adele, Rihanna, Lady Gaga, Whitney Houston, P!nk, Björk, Billie Eilish — and more.
Each section brings these legends to life through their costumes, music and personal artefacts — offering an intimate glimpse behind the spotlight.
First Impressions & What to Expect
I attend the opening of AMPA and step into an exhibition that feels vibrant, thoughtful and wonderfully intimate. As Karen Quinlan reminds us during the launch, “Art is essential to life.” And standing inside this museum, it absolutely feels true.
A Three-Act Exhibition (Yes, Like an Opera!)
DIVA unfolds across three acts, giving the whole experience a sense of narrative and discovery:
Act I – The Making of a Diva
You’re taken back to the opera craze of the 1830s, when the word “diva” first enters the public imagination. The exhibition traces its evolution through dance, Hollywood, early showgirls and silent film icons — showing how the idea of the diva keeps shifting with each generation.
Act II – Reclaiming the Diva
This section explores “diva” as a word of freedom, power and expression. It celebrates the grand dames, the activists and the boundary-pushers.
And it’s not limited to women — performers like Elton John, Prince and Freddie Mercury appear as glamourous revolutionaries who challenge gender norms and redefine performance.
Act III – The Constellations
The final act is a stunning projection space mapping connections between performers. Threads of influence stretch across time, showing how these icons inspire and shape one another. It’s visually striking — and unexpectedly moving.
Terrie’s review
My teenage granddaughter and I enjoyed a lovely day in Melbourne to see the DIVA Exhibition. We made our way from Southern Cross Station along Collins Street, stopping in to see the old ANZ Bank, now known as the ANZ Gothic Specialist Hub and Banking Museum. It’s definitely worth a visit, and my 16-year-old granddaughter really enjoyed it.
Walking and chatting worked up a thirst, so we stopped for coffee and lemonade at Brunetti Oro in Swanston Street, a place I love. Choosing from all the decadent cakes was very hard, so we shared a couple — a perfect solution.
The DIVA Exhibition at Arts Centre Melbourne was absolutely amazing and incredibly interesting. I am in awe of the people who curated and presented it. The information accompanying each costume was very informative and gave real meaning to each era and person represented. The costumes were interspersed with screens displaying singing performances and film excerpts.
I especially loved seeing Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton in Cleopatra. It was also fun explaining to my 16-year-old granddaughter who these iconic actors were.
Two things to be aware of. Firstly, the lighting is quite dark. Photos are allowed, but without flash. Secondly, depending on how much reading you do, it took us about 50–60 minutes to walk through the exhibition. There is no seating available inside if you need to rest your legs, so take your time — there is a lot to take in.
After all that visual stimulation, we enjoyed a light lunch at Sushi Hub. Then it was homeward bound, where both old and young — nanna and granddaughter — enjoyed a lovely nap on the train.
A Feast for the Eyes
Up close, the objects tell powerful stories. A few standouts:
- Maria Callas’s stage ensemble from Norma (1952)
- Vivien Leigh’s crimson Dior gown from Duel of Angels (1958)
- Marilyn Monroe’s black fringed dress from Some Like It Hot (1959)
- Ella Fitzgerald’s canary-yellow jumpsuit (1960s–70s)
- Sarah Bernhardt’s personal objects, capturing the life of one of history’s most commanding performers
- Josephine Baker, ever provocative, ever groundbreaking
- Lady Gaga, a reminder of modern divas blending art, activism and individuality
- Kylie Minogue, celebrated through iconic looks and milestone moments
- Amy Taylor’s whoopee-cushion dress, showing humour and punkish charm can be pure diva energy, worn on tour at Sidney Myer Music Bowl (2025)
- Iconic Bob Mackie designs worn by Tina Turner, P!nk and Cher
- Whitney Houston’s gold-trimmed Grammy gown (1994)
Each piece tells a story — not just of the performer, but of the era, the artistry, and the cultural shift they helped create.
There are many pockets of history to enjoy, and plenty of reading for those who love the stories behind the sequins.
Australian Divas Shine Bright
Australia’s own icons feature prominently, thanks to pieces from Arts Centre Melbourne’s Australian Performing Arts Collection. Expect to see treasures from Dame Joan Sutherland, Dame Edna Everage, Marcia Hines, Olivia Newton-John, Peter Allen, Chrissy Amphlett, Jessica Mauboy, Kate Miller-Heidke and more.
It’s a powerful reminder that Australia has produced some of the world’s most unforgettable performers — artists who’ve used their voices, their style and their presence to shape music, theatre and culture on a global scale.
A Perfect Opening Act for AMPA
Arts Centre Melbourne CEO Karen Quinlan AM says DIVA is the perfect exhibition to launch the new museum.
“DIVA will enthral visitors with its incredible display about the power of performers and their impact on our cultural history,” Quinlan says. “This exhibition and the Australian Museum of Performing Arts bring to life our long-held vision to showcase the rich theatrical legacy of Australia and beyond.”
Meanwhile, curator Kate Bailey describes it as a celebration of the people who’ve redefined what it means to be a diva:
“At the heart of this exhibition is a story of iconic performers who, with creativity, courage and ambition, have challenged the status quo. We are thrilled to be working with the Australian Museum of Performing Arts and sharing this powerful story around the world. Viva La Diva!”
What’s Next for AMPA?
Following DIVA, AMPA will host its second major exhibition, ENCORE!, opening 10 June 2026, celebrating 50 years of the Australian Performing Arts Collection. Expect fifty iconic objects, from Dame Nellie Melba’s opera cloak to Ella Havelka’s pointe shoes, in a dazzling showcase of Australian performance history.
Plan Your Visit
DIVA will be on display at the Australian Museum of Performing Arts, Hamer Hall, from 11 December 2025 to 26 April 2026.
Located in the heart of Melbourne’s Arts Precinct, it’s an easy walk from Flinders Street Station and Federation Square — or a short tram ride along St Kilda Road.
Dates & Times
11 December 2025 – 26 April 2026
Mon–Fri: 12pm–7pm
Sat–Sun: 10am–7pm
Price Range
Adult: $30.00
Concession: $28.00
Child (5–15): $19.00
Family (group of 4): $23.00 per person*
BlakTix: $15.00
Family tickets include minimum 1 Adult/Concession and 1 Child.
AMPA Accessibility
- Accessible bathrooms
- Wheelchair accessible with entrance at ground level
- Companion Card recognised
- Open captioned content
DIVA is a brilliant opening chapter for the new Australian Museum of Performing Arts, and a must-see for anyone who loves music, theatre, glamour, or simply a great story well told.
Whether you’re a lifelong theatre-goer, music lover or just partial to a little glamour, this is one exhibition you won’t want to miss.
We’ll see you there — front row, centre.
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The Seniors in Melbourne team visited as guests of NGV. All opinions are the writers’ own.
