Opera Queensland’s La Cenerentola (Cinderella) was a huge hit at the recent Brisbane Bel Canto festival. While the festival was affected by Cyclone Alfred, thankfully this centrepiece production went ahead, to much acclaim.

And now eight of the opera’s iconic costumes are on display from May 6 to June 1 in the CBD at Brisbane Quarter, in partnership with Opera Queensland.

The breathtaking costumes from La Cenerentola (Cinderella) are being shown in a free exhibition at Podium 1, Atrium, Brisbane Quarter, George St, giving visitors a rare opportunity to view the extraordinary craftsmanship behind one of Opera Queensland’s most visually stunning works.

Blending fairytale romance with high-fashion flair, La Cenerentola’s costumes were created by Opera Queensland designers Karen Cochet and Bianca Bulley.

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Visitors can experience the theatrical magic up close, including Cinderella’s glittering four-layered ball gown, an extravagant rose-adorned cape and Don Magnifico’s flamboyant floral suit, inspired by an iconic Alexander McQueen design once worn by actor Timothée Chalamet. (Chalamet wore the floral suit to the 2018 premiere of the film The Beautiful Boy in London, in which he had a starring role. The suit was a powder-blue, single-breasted drop shoulder style with a painted floral print.)

You’ll also see Cinderella’s dramatic transition coat, created with quilted silk, pagoda sleeves and hand-appliquéd organza flowers, as well as The Stepsisters’ dazzling gowns, complete with sculptural hip silhouettes, corsetry and more than 140 handcrafted roses.

Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the theatrical storytelling woven through the garments on display, each reflecting the fusion of nature, fantasy and human transformation at the heart of Rossini’s opera.

While at Brisbane Quarter, enjoy restaurants including Brisbane Phoenix, Persone, Phat Boy and Tenya – all located upstairs from the installation on Podium 2 – or consider a stay at W Brisbane.

The exhibition is a result of the Shayher Group’s commitment to the arts in Queensland, which has seen the group expand its sponsorship beyond major partner QAGOMA to include Opera Queensland and Queensland Symphony Orchestra.

For lovers of theatre, fashion, or fairytales, this one-of-a-kind display is not to be missed.

For more information about the costumes on display at Brisbane Quarter, go to: brisbanequarter.com.au/retail/opera-queensland-costume-display