On Wednesday afternoon our first 'official' tourist thing was a tour of the Sydney Opera House. I had been looking forward to being there for a very long time, as I remember when work began and watching this weird and wonderful structure being built. And it lived up to its reputation.
It is located on Port Jackson/Sydney Harbor near the harbour bridge. and is one of the most photographed buildings in the world as well as being the best-known landmark in Sydney. Some pictures from outside in the grounds (and one proving I was actually there!)
I love the sail-shaped shells that make up it's roof structure, pulled from 'cutting' pieces from a sphere.
It is a multipurpose performing arts center with two large theaters (the Concert Hall, with just under 2,700 seats and the Opera Theatre with just over 1,500 seats) and several smaller venues as well. There is an area called the Forecourt (on the southeastern end of the area) that is used for outdoor performances. There is also a professional recording studio and restaurants.
The story of the opera house starts in 1956 when the government of New South Wales sponsored an international competition to design a building with two halls. In 1957 the government announced that the winning design was submitted by a Danish architect named Jørn Utzon. Construction began in 1959 but (as often happens) various issues and problems arose, some because of the innovative nature of Utzon's design. The original opening was planned for the beginning of 1963, but issues - which also included some political controversy - and a waning of public support for a time - delayed the actual opening until October 20, 1973.
Some other interesting facts:
The original cost estimate was $7MM but it ultimately cost $102MM, not including improvements/expansions that took place later. It took 14 years and about 10,000 workers
The heating and air-conditioning system is powered by cold seawater pulled from Sydney Harbour
It's the home of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra. When the symphony is performing the temperature in the Concert Hall must be maintained at 72.5°F (22.5 °C) in order to keep the musicians' instruments in tune
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