Exhibition pays homage to greatest divas old and new

What makes a diva?

For London-based curator Kate Bailey, it's the iconic and provocative trailblazers whose ambition and resilience transformed and inspired the world around them.

The stories of history's divas will be on show at the Australian Museum of Performing Arts through hundreds of pieces including spectacular costumes, jewellery, photography, art and music.

"At the heart of this exhibition is a story of iconic performers who with creativity, courage and ambition have challenged the status quo and used their voice and their art to redefine and reclaim the diva," Ms Bailey said.

The Australian exclusive showcases many of the world's best-known divas, from opera goddess Maria Callas and Golden Age Hollywood legends Joan Crawford and Judy Garland, to today's global megastars and pop icons Madonna, Cher, Lady Gaga and Billie Eilish.

On show will be Callas' stage ensemble in her 1952 title role of Norma, Rihanna's high-fashion Papal look with jewel-encrusted robe and matching mitre worn at the 2018 Met Gala, and Whitney Houston's floor length black-and-gold dress when she received her three Grammy Awards for The Bodyguard soundtrack in 1994.

Australia's own divas including Dame Nellie Melba and Kylie Minogue, Peter Allen and Olivia Newton-John will also be out in force with the nation's contribution to "DIVAdom" explored in the exhibition.

The exhibition also reflects on the term diva, meaning goddess in Italian, and how it has been subverted and embraced over time.

Visitors will witness the artistry and adversity of these fabulous agitators and change agents, from their exquisite couture gowns and show-stopping costumes to intimate personal items.

The exhibition opens in Melbourne on Thursday and runs until April 26.