Ivan King OAM receives special honour
The Museum of Performing Arts at His Majesty’s Theatre has officially been renamed MOPA: The King Collection, in recognition of its founder Ivan King OAM and his extraordinary contribution to Western Australia’s performing arts heritage.
Ivan King, a former actor, director and passionate theatre historian, has been a central figure in WA’s cultural landscape for more than 50 years. His enduring association with His Majesty’s Theatre and his tireless work to preserve the state’s theatrical legacy have earned him widespread admiration and accolades, including the Premier’s Award for Active Citizenship and the Medal of the Order of Australia.
Arts & Culture Trust CEO, Janis Carren, said Ivan King’s passion for performing arts and his unwavering commitment to preserving Western Australia’s theatrical history is nothing short of remarkable.
“Renaming the Museum of Performing Arts to MOPA: The King Collection is a meaningful way to honour Ivan’s vision, dedication and the profound impact he has had on our cultural heritage.
“His Majesty’s Theatre and the broader arts community owe a great debt to Ivan, and this tribute ensures his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.”
Mr King started curating items for the collection in 1984 however it wasn’t until 2001 that the Museum of Performing Arts officially opened at His Majesty’s Theatre, becoming WA’s first museum dedicated to the performing arts. Over the decades, Mr King meticulously curated a collection of more than 50,000 items – including costumes, handbills, photographs, press clippings, scripts and scores – ensuring the stories of WA’s stage history are preserved for future generations.
The newly renamed MOPA: The King Collection is open to the public at His Majesty’s Theatre, offering a unique glimpse into the rich and vibrant history of performance in Western Australia.
Items from the collection are displayed throughout His Majesty’s Theatre.
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