That's the attraction for collector Colin Robinson, who has provided much of the items for the exhibition.

The display at Springvale and District Historical Society has costumes and dioramas from well known Melbourne amateur troupes Windmill Theatre Company, Babirra Music Theatre, Nova Music Theatre and Croydon Parish Players.

It includes props from the companies' past and recent productions such as Greece, Miss Saigon and Oliver!

There is also memorabilia of golden-tonsilled dames Joan Sutherland and Nellie Melba, and of early-1900s group The Glassophonists, who made a living from playing glasses filled with water.

Mr Robinson, president of the historical society, provided costumes and props such as a collapsible stagecoach he custom-built for Babirra, and World War II uniforms and equipment for a Dad's Army in Western Australia.

He has personally collected about 1000 Salvation Army, military and ethnic uniforms, some dating back before Federation - "I'm lucky enough to have enough room for all of them at home".

It's not just the costumes that awaken Mr Robinson's imagination - he's fascinated by social histories they represent and the lives of those who wore them.

The Magic of Musicals is at the Springvale and District Historical Society, 7 Hillcrest Grove, Springvale, from 1-4pm on Wednesdays-Fridays. To arrange group visits, call Colin Robinson on 9547 6460.