Michael Jackson exhibition draws thousands to Newbridge Silverware

Excited fans formed a long queue to see some items worn by the King of Pop himself
Michael Jackson exhibition draws thousands to Newbridge Silverware

Some of the lengthy queue to see the Michael Jackson exhibition at Newbridge Silverware

THOUSANDS of Michael Jackson fans gathered at the Museum of Style Icons at Newbridge Silverware on Friday, 30 October for the official opening of ‘A Thriller of an Exhibition – Michael Jackson: A Fashion Legacy’, a spectacular exhibition celebrating the music, fashion and extraordinary legacy of the ‘King of Pop’.

The exhibition was officially opened by Michael Bush, the legendary costume designer who worked alongside Michael Jackson for more than 25 years, creating some of the superstar’s most iconic stage looks. Mr Bush met with fans and signed copies of his acclaimed book, The King of Style: Dressing Michael Jackson, which offers a fascinating insight into their longstanding working relationship and creative collaborations.

Michael Bush, longtime costume designer to Michael Jackson, officially opens A Thriller Of An Exhibition – Michael Jackson: A Fashion Legacy at the Museum of Style Icons, Newbridge Silverware, Co. Kildare.  Photography: Sasko Lazarov / Photocall Ireland
Michael Bush, longtime costume designer to Michael Jackson, officially opens A Thriller Of An Exhibition – Michael Jackson: A Fashion Legacy at the Museum of Style Icons, Newbridge Silverware, Co. Kildare.  Photography: Sasko Lazarov / Photocall Ireland

There was a suitably thrilling atmosphere at the opening as dancers from local performing arts company KNC Performing Arts brought Jackson’s legendary Thriller routine to life. Michael Jackson tribute performer Kyle Grayjuner also entertained the crowds with a medley of the King of Pop’s most famous dance routines, including his signature Moonwalk.

Presented in association with internationally renowned Julien’s Auctions, the exhibition offers visitors a rare opportunity to view an extraordinary collection of costumes and memorabilia associated with one of the greatest entertainers of all time.

 Michael Bush with some of the fantastic dancers from the opening
 Michael Bush with some of the fantastic dancers from the opening

Among the star attractions is the spectacular illuminated Thriller jacket worn by Jackson during his 1987–1989 Bad World Tour, featuring flashing LED lights that brought the iconic look to life on stage. Also on display is the legendary rhinestone-studded white glove worn during his historic performance of Billie Jean at the 1983 Motown 25 television special, when he famously introduced the Moonwalk to the world.

Completing the collection are the black leather Florsheim loafers worn by Jackson during rehearsals for that landmark Motown 25 performance, alongside an impressive selection of costumes and memorabilia.

Frankie Doyle Acres (age 6) from Dublin, poses with zombie dancers as they officially open the exhibition 
Frankie Doyle Acres (age 6) from Dublin, poses with zombie dancers as they officially open the exhibition 

The exhibition comes ahead of Julien’s Auctions’ highly anticipated Michael Jackson: The Fashion Legacy auction, which takes place at Rosewood Abu Dhabi on 7th December as part of its international Celebrity & Pop Culture Experience.

 Michael Bush, longtime costume designer to Michael Jackson, with Kyle Gray, dancer and Michael Jackson tribute performer dressed as the King of Pop
 Michael Bush, longtime costume designer to Michael Jackson, with Kyle Gray, dancer and Michael Jackson tribute performer dressed as the King of Pop

The free exhibition ‘A Thriller of an Exhibition – Michael Jackson: A Fashion Legacy’ runs until Sunday, 8 November 2026, at the Museum of Style Icons, Newbridge Silverware Visitor Centre, Newbridge.

For further information, visit www.newbridgesilverware.ie. For auction information, visit www.juliensauctions.com

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