DIVA: Celebrating the Iconic Costumes and Creativity of Performers
When you think of a diva, you might imagine a punk rock singer like Amy Taylor from Amyl and the Sniffers wearing a unique outfit made of pink Whoopee Cushions. This outfit, along with other iconic costumes worn by divas like Kylie Minogue, Rihanna, Cher, Tina Turner, and Freddie Mercury, is part of the DIVA exhibition at the Australian Museum of Performing Arts. The exhibition, which originated at London's Victoria and Albert Museum, showcases intricate costumes, jewelry, photography, and art that celebrate the creativity and power of divas across different genres of performance.
The DIVA exhibition explores the evolution of the term "diva" from its Latin origins meaning Roman goddess to its use in the 19th century to describe distinguished opera singers. It delves into how the term has been adapted in theatre, dance, cinema, rock, and pop, reclaiming the narrative of divas as performers with a strong sense of self, vision, and attitude. The exhibition features costumes worn by Elton John, Lady Gaga, Whitney Houston, Billie Eilish, Marilyn Monroe, and many others, highlighting the impact of divas in the entertainment industry.
In Melbourne, the Australian portion of the exhibition includes costumes worn by trailblazers like Dame Nellie Melba and disruptive divas like Chrissy Amphlett. Iconic pieces such as Olivia Newton-John's rhinestone-encrusted jacket from her Las Vegas residency, Peter Allen's gold-sequinned shirt, Dame Edna Everage's specs, and Jessica Mauboy's Eurovision dress are also on display. The exhibition pays tribute to Australian divas like Kylie Minogue, showcasing her Padam Padam catsuit and cape, which is a standout piece in the collection.
The DIVA exhibition at the Australian Museum of Performing Arts offers a fascinating journey through the world of divas, celebrating their creativity, power, and influence in the entertainment industry. From Amy Taylor's Whoopee Cushion outfit to Elton John's extravagant costumes, the exhibition showcases the diverse and captivating styles of divas throughout history. Visit the exhibition to explore the legacy of divas and their impact on music, fashion, and performance art.