Kylie on Stage at Arts Centre Melbourne features costumes, video snippets, and memorabilia from Kylie Minogue’s Disco in Dreams (1989) tour through to the Aphrodite (2011) tour. The performing arts collection once again brings to life some of the show stopping, razzle dazzle moments from Kylie’s illustrious career and tells a story of how she evolved as an artist.
The free exhibition features creations by Dolce and Gabbana, John Galliano, Chanel’s own Karl Lagerfield, and Jean Paul Gaultier. My plus one and I got an exclusive tour of the original showgirl’s closet by the collection’s curator, Margot Anderson.
Her onstage personas have undergone many transformations throughout her career. The Disco in Dreams tour look book is described as being ‘disco diva next door’. Kylie then moved on to a more edgy, postmodern pop look for the Fever (2002) tour.
Showgirl (2004) was a tribute to her greatest hits and a celebration of how far she has come in her career. Unfortunately, this tour was cut short when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Kylie returned stronger and better than ever with her Showgirl Homecoming tour in 2006. The change in costume design between these two tours is tangible.
The pieces from Showgirl were very much designed to be exactly as the name suggested: showy and out there. The homecoming tour however was demurer in its costume design, showing the vulnerable, human side of this international artist. Though, don’t get me wrong, the pieces were still spectacular.
My favourite costumes on display is the ethereal pearl and chiffon gown designed by Dolce and Gabbana. It is truly spectacular to behold with rows of pearls, golden mesh and flowing chiffon.
The Barre bar and eatery will be serving ‘For the Lovers’, a Kylie-inspired cocktail, over the duration of the exhibition. They are also hosting a Kylie-themed DJ session every Friday night where the sweet sounds of Kylie will make you ‘step back in time’ and have you ‘spinning around’. The exhibition will run through until 22 January 2017 so head down and explore the on stage magic of Australia’s original pop princess.
– Ashanie
Ashanie Perera is a foodaholic and avid eater. When she’s not dreaming about her next meal, she can be found running around the block to continue fitting into her current clothes. @thepursuitofchubbyness
Kylie on Stage runs 21 September 2016 to 22 January 2017 at Arts Centre Melbourne.
Admission is free and the venue is accessible.
