Collection Store Tours

The Australian Performing Arts Collection Tours allows unprecedented behind-the-scenes access to the Australian Performing Arts Collection. Located in Hamer Hall, our Collection Store Tour offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the renowned Australian Performing Arts Collection. Featuring a selection of original objects from more than 850,000 items spanning circus, dance, music, opera and theatre, these tours provide a unique opportunity to explore the Collection and learn more about the performers, creatives and companies that have helped make Australian performing arts history. Learn how Art Centre Melbourne’s curators have worked closely with the performing arts industry to develop the Collection since its inception in the 1970s. Hear about the stories behind the objects and discover what it takes to expertly manage their preservation and prepare them for display. Led by their knowledgeable guides, you'll get an up-close look at the Collection — including props, costumes, set models, puppets, designs and more. See a range of items such as Margot Fonteyn’s pointe shoes, Peter Allen’s maracas, Dame Edna’s collection of spectacles, alongside circus apparatus and intricately made headpieces for the opera stage, and more.