The Sydney Opera House: Architecture and History

Location and Architecture

• Located in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
• Situated on Bennelong Point in Sydney Harbour
• Designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon
• Opened on October 20, 1973

Design and Features

• Expressionist architectural style
• Comprises multiple performance venues, including:
  • Concert Hall (seating 1,677)
  • Opera Theatre (seating 1,056)
  • Drama Theatre (seating 544)
  • Playhouse (seating 398)
  • Studio (seating 280)
• Famous for its roof structure, composed of:
  • 2,194 pre-cast concrete sections
  • 14,000 metres of tensioned cable
• White sails-like design inspired by the shapes of sailing boats

Construction and Cost

• Construction took 16 years (1957-1973)
• Original estimated cost: AU$7 million
• Final cost: AU$102 million
• Funded by the New South Wales Government

Cultural Significance

• UNESCO World Heritage Site (2007)
• One of the most iconic and recognizable buildings in the world
• Hosts over 1,500 performances annually, including:
  • Opera Australia
  • Sydney Symphony Orchestra
  • Australian Ballet
  • Other dance, music, and theatre companies

Interesting Facts

• The Sydney Opera House is not just an opera house, but a multi-venue performing arts centre
• The building's design has been likened to a series of giant shells or a sailboat
• The Opera House is home to a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars