Unveiling DIVA: A Celebration of Iconic Performers at the Australian Museum of Performing Arts
Mark your calendars, music, and fashion lovers! The Australian Museum of Performing Arts (AMPA) has just unveiled the highly anticipated exhibition, ‘DIVA’, developed by London’s renowned Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A). Running from December 11, 2025, to April 26, 2026, this spectacular showcase is simply a breathtaking journey through the lives of some of history’s most provocative and powerful divas.
With over 250 objects on display, including 60 stunning costumes, jewellery, photography, and art, DIVA is a treasure trove of creativity that spans centuries. This exhibition not only draws from the V&A’s extensive collection but also features items from the Australian Performing Arts Collection at Arts Centre Melbourne and other international loans.
DIVA will take visitors on an enchanting trip through time, spotlighting the creativity, ambition, and resilience of some of the world’s most iconic performers. Get ready to be starstruck by a megawatt line-up that includes the likes of Maria Callas, Judy Garland, Joan Crawford, Dame Nellie Melba, Grace Jones, Cher, Tina Turner, Elton John, Madonna, Kylie Minogue, Adele, Rihanna, Lady Gaga, Whitney Houston, P!nk, Bjork, Billie Eilish, and more! Each name on this illustrious list has left an indelible mark on the world of performance, redefining what it means to be a diva in their own unique way.
V&A Senior Curator Kate Bailey, who has masterfully curated the exhibition, emphasies that DIVA delves into the multifaceted nature of performers. “This exhibition explores the performer, not just as an artist, but as a trailblazer,” she notes. It’s a celebration of not only their artistry but also their influence and impact on culture, fashion, and society at large.
As you wander through the exhibition, expect to be enthralled by the vivid costumes that tell stories of glamour and grit, the striking photography that captures unforgettable moments, and the music that brings these divas’ legacies to life. Whether you’re an ardent fan of pop culture, a fashion enthusiast, or simply curious about the evolution of performance art, DIVA has something for everyone.
For more information please visit https://whatson.melbourne.vic.gov.au/things-to-do/diva
