Starting May 23, 2026, fans across Nebraska—and surrounding areas—can step into the magic of Disney and discover the iconic looks of some of their favorite characters in an enchanting, up-close experience for all ages. The Durham Museum presents Heroes & Villains: The Art of the Disney Costume, an exhibition curated by the Walt Disney Archives showcasing nearly 70 ensembles spanning nearly five decades of Disney film and television. Get closer than ever to the original film-worn costumes of some beloved Disney heroes, villains and antiheroes, including Cinderella, Maleficent, Mary Poppins, Captain Jack Sparrow, and Aladdin. Discover the craftsmanship behind exquisite gowns, majestic capes, mesmerizing uniforms, and other pieces from live-action films.
Whether a young fan eager to see a beloved character's costume or a film and fashion fan wanting to discover the artistry and innovation behind every seam, the exhibition offers something for all audiences.
“Disney has given us some of our most treasured stories and memories,” said Scott Eastman, director of marketing and PR, The Durham Museum. “To be surrounded by so many costumes of some iconic characters is a truly breathtaking experience for both the young and the young at heart.”
Hear how legendary Emmy® and Academy Award®-winning costume designers expressed mood and motivations with each stitch, with interviews and an exclusive video made just for this exhibition. Guests can also step into “Cinderella’s Workshop” to see how the classic character has been interpreted across different television and movie iterations.
Heroes & Villains: The Art of the Disney Costume will be on display through the summer of 2026. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, The Durham Museum is open Mondays with extended hours until 8 p.m. on Tuesdays.
For extra fun, check out these related programs and events:
Sunday Matinees at the Museum
Select Sundays, 1-3 p.m.
Visitors can explore the exhibition, then see the costumes come to life on the screen in the museum’s Stanley & Dorothy Truhlsen Lecture Hall. Enjoy a classic moviegoing experience with optional concessions available for purchase from the museum’s old-fashioned Soda Fountain.
- Sunday, May 24 – Cinderella (2015) starring Lily James
- Sunday, June 21 – Beauty and the Beast (2017) starring Emma Watson
- Sunday, July 19 – National Treasure (2004) starring Nicolas Cage
- Sunday, August 16 – Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003) starring Disney Legend Johnny Depp
Screenings are open to the public. Regular admission applies and is free to museum members.
Behind the Seams: The Making of a Disney Exhibition
Thursday, June 4, 5-8 p.m.
Join a special behind-the-scenes look at the exhibition and discover how this extraordinary experience came to life, from curating the original costumes to incorporating new additions from films like Cruella (2021) and Peter Pan & Wendy (2023). Don’t miss this rare peek into the artistry and imagination behind Disney storytelling.
A social hour and opportunity to view the exhibition begins at 5 p.m. with the presentation starting at 6:30 p.m. Refreshments will be available for purchase.
This event is open to the public. Regular admission applies and is free for members. Advanced registration is required at DurhamMuseum.org, reservations@DurhamMuseum.org or 402-444-5071.
Drop-in Programming – Wednesdays and Saturdays!
Every Wednesday and Saturday, May 23–August 29
- Fairy Tale Storytime and Platform Play Wednesdays, 11 a.m.
Meet at The Platform for a read-aloud picture book followed by an opportunity to play dress-up with costumes and accessories that complement the Heroes & Villains exhibit. Your child is encouraged to come dressed as their favorite character!
- Disney Trivia: Wednesdays, 1–3 p.m.
Think you’re a Disney superfan? On Wednesdays, come test your knowledge of Disney films and characters.
- Heroes & Villains Exhibit Tours: Saturdays, 11 a.m.
Want to hear behind-the-scenes stories? Tag along with a museum educator and uncover the must-see highlights and fascinating details as you walk through the exhibition. All ages welcome.
For full museum hours and admission information, visit DurhamMuseum.org.
Heroes & Villains: The Art of the Disney Costume is curated by the Walt Disney Archives. The exhibition is supported locally by the Richard Brooke Foundation; Valmont Industries; Douglas County, Nebraska; HDR, Inc.; Dr. C.C. & Mabel L. Criss Memorial Foundation; The Durham Society; and Millard Lumber Inc.