Iconic Olivia Newton-John Outfits & More Acquired By Arts Centre Melbourne

Arts Centre Melbourne has obtained a wealth of iconic items from Australian legend Olivia Newton-John, including outfits worn during historic performances, an award, scripts and more.

The huge acquisition for the Australian Performing Arts Collection included more than 500 items, all of which were part of an auction at the end of 2019 that raised funds for the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness & Research Centre.

The white chiffon gown pictured above is one item obtained and was worn by Newton-John during her 1978 TV special Olivia alongside Bee Gees’ Andy Gibb and ABBA, while her red sequinned Royal Charity Concert outfit is currently on display at the Australian Music Vault.

“I am thrilled that some of my stage clothes and sketches that my friend costume designer Fleur Thiemeyer created, which I wore during the height of my career in the ‘70s and ‘80s, are now on display after all these years!” Newton-John said.

“I am so proud of her and delighted that they will become a permanent part of the Australian Performing Arts Collection at Arts Centre Melbourne. It’s wonderful to know that they will be carefully preserved for future generations to see.”  

Arts Centre Melbourne CEO Claire Spencer added: “It is such a thrill for Arts Centre Melbourne to acquire these items including the beautiful ruby red dress that was worn by Olivia Newton-John on two iconic occasions. 

“We have loved having it on loan in the Australian Music Vault for a display that honours contemporary Australian music and now permanently in the Australian Performing Arts Collection.”

For more details, head to the Australian Music Vault website for more details.