Australian Exclusive

Presented by Arts Centre Melbourne and Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A), London

DIVA is a groundbreaking exhibition celebrating some of history’s most provocative and powerful performers. The exhibition presents more than 250 objects, including 60 spectacular costumes, jewellery, photography, art, and music, drawn from the V&A’s Collection, Arts Centre Melbourne’s Australian Performing Arts Collection, and loaned treasures from across the world. Discover the triumphs and transformations of the diva, from 19th-century opera goddesses and silent film stars to Golden Age Hollywood legends and today’s global megastars and pop icons.

The exhibition features a dazzling roll call of legends such as Maria Callas, Judy Garland, Joan Crawford, Dame Nellie Melba, Grace Jones, Cher, Prince, Tina Turner, Elton John, Madonna, Adele, Rihanna, Lady Gaga, Whitney Houston, P!nk, Bjork, Billie Eilish and more.

DIVA also showcases Australia’s significant contributions to the stage, including Dame Joan Sutherland, Peter Allen, Marcia Hines, Kylie Minogue, Olivia Newton-John, Cate Blanchett, Kate Miller-Heidke, Chrissy Amphlett, Dame Edna Everage, Jessica Mauboy and Amy Taylor (Amyl and the Sniffers). 

From the stadium tour to the Met Gala, DIVA brings the magic of pop culture’s biggest moments to life. Discover iconic garments by legendary designers such as Bob Mackie, Valentino, Maison Margiela, Vivienne Westwood, Christian Dior and more – up close and in stunning detail. From exquisite beading, feathers, diamonds and jewels to personal objects, song sheets and handwritten lyrics, delve into this exhibition of art and attitude, vision and voice. Experience an immersive soundscape designed by world-leading sound designer Gareth Fry, featuring hits and hooks from DIVA’s biggest stars.

Charting the origin and rise of the diva through the ages – from creative subversion to public backlash and reign in their own times – DIVA takes you behind the headlines to reveal the essence and artistry of these showstopping performers and agents of change, in all their glory. 

DIVA

11 Dec 2025 – 26 Apr 2026
Hamer Hall
Location

Australian Museum of Performing Arts
Hamer Hall, Arts Centre Melbourne

Daily, 10am–7pm*
*On Thursday 19 February DIVA will open from 11am–7pm

Adult$30.00
Concession$28.00 Child (5-15 years)$19.00 Family (group of 4 with minimum 1 Child)$21.00 per person Group of 10–30*$27.00 per person
BlakTix$15.00

*Concession pricing is available for full-time Australian and International Students, Health Care Card Holders, MEAA Members, Pension Card Holders, Unemployed and Victorian Carer Card Holders.

**For groups of 30+, call 1300 182 183 or email tickets@artscentremelbourne.com.au.