During a recent visit to Parramatta, a suburb of inner western Sydney, I visited Old Government House; Australia’s oldest surviving public building. It was here that the Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries Costume Exhibition was being held. This series, based on Kerry Greenwood’s novels and produced by the ABC, have run for two seasons, and there is currently debate on whether there will be a third season*. Fans, like myself, are hoping it will be given a green light, as it has proved popular both here and overseas. This particular period in history had never really held much interest for me, but since watching this show, it has changed my mind.
Set in Melbourne during the 1920s, the creators of the show have done a terrific job of displaying the time period. The costumes on the show, as demonstrated in the exhibition were amazing and I was captivated by the level of detail that went into each piece. Unfortunately, given the delicacy of the walls within Old Government House, flash photography could not be used. I tried to take a photo, but my camera insisted using the flash. It was around the time I also noticed that the battery in my camera was also out of charge, so I guess taking any photos were not meant to be. However, that didn’t stop me from inwardly doing my best Homer Simpson impersonation and cursing myself – ‘Not happy Jan!’
The exhibition mainly displayed the costumes worn by Essie Davis as Phryne Fisher, but also on display were some costumes worn by Jack, Dot and Aunt Prudence. As well as clothing, the exhibition featured accessories, including hats, shoes and handbags. There were some costumes that I fell in love with just by seeing them up so close.
If you enjoy the show or are interested in the 1920s or vintage fashion, I highly recommend seeing this exhibition. It has certainly made me appreciate the dedication that goes into making high quality television.
Are you a fan of Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries and would like to see a third season? Have you visited the exhibition – what are your thoughts? Have you watched or read something that changed your mind regarding a certain period in history? Do you have an appreciation for vintage fashion?
* A month after writing this post, it was announced that a third season of Miss Fishers Murder Mysteries will go into production. Filming is due to begin mid October, 2014. 🙂
I love the Miss Fisher Murder Mysteries, and I was not very happy the ABC axed the third series. Personally, I thought they were crazy for not continuing such a well-written and popular show. I love the costumes, the sets and locations, and Esse Davis was simply brilliant as Miss Fisher. It was about the only thing worth watching on the ABC!
Hi Tima. I agree that it is a crazy decision not to continue with a show that has become so popular. Everything about it was really well done, proving that Australia can produce high quality television. It would be nice to see one more season. I know I’d be happy if they were to do one more series ending with Phryne and Jack getting together – a much happier, satisfying ending! 🙂
That’s exactly what I was hoping for! I hate when these silly TV execs end a program mid-story. Grrrrr!
I LOVE MISS FISHER’S MURDER MYSTERIES!!! Also heard that the series on TV changes some of the characters so am tempted to start reading them and see if I like the books as much as the tv series… Wish I could see the exhibition…
Hi Lisa. Thanks for stopping by. I’m glad to hear you’re another fan of the show! I haven’t read the books either and I’ve also heard about changes to certain characters (Cec and Bert), so that would be interesting to read what they’re really like. I guess reading the books would be the way to go now that the television series seems to have come to an end. 🙁
I’m not a fan because I didn’t know about it, but thanks to you I have a trail to follow. I’ll get the DVDs if I have to.
Great post.
Anna from Shout with Emaginette
Hi Anna. Glad you liked it – I might have made a convert to the show! 😉 There were only two seasons and a Christmas special was also made last year. I think it’s worth it if you can track them down. Good luck and enjoy!
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Please dont take Miss Fisher off !!!! Love, Love Her. Her style is the Best, just love the way she dresses! The whole dam show is GREAT!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hi Joyce. My sentiments exactly! I think it’s one of the best shows Australia has produced in a long time and it would be a shame to see it end this way. I was told at the exhibition that there is still uncertainty of a third season. There is currently a petition going around, so we can only live in hope! I think I may have to read the books now. 😉 Thanks for your comments.