Sydney Opera House unveils designs for its largest program of renewal

SYDNEY, Aug. 13 (People’s Daily Online)– Sydney Opera House held a media conference on August 11, 2016, unveiling working designs for the largest program of upgrades in 43 years since it opened in 1973.

“The plans will ensure the Opera House is able to meet the increasing popularity of Australia’s leading tourist destination and busiest performing arts centre. The Sydney Opera House is the symbol of modern Australia. It is our responsibility as custodians of this extraordinary place to maintain and renew it for all Australians,” said Troy Grant, NSW Deputy Premier and Minister for the Arts.

“The Opera House has exceeded everyone’s expectations, from the scale, range and intensity of performances and events to the wide variety of visitors it attracts from around the world. So much of what the Opera House does today could not have been envisaged when it was first conceived and built. It is crucial to work through these renewal projects and respect the incredible heritage,” Sydney Opera House CEO Louise Herron AM said.

The largest of the four NSW Government-funded projects, the Concert Hall upgrade is expected to take 18 months to complete. Construction will begin in mid-2019 and the hall will reopen with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra’s (SSO) 2021 season.

It will also transform office space into a new Creative Learning Centre, a dedicated place for children, families and young people. Moreover, it will remove the existing intrusive marquee from the Northern Broadwalk, and build a premium Function Centre within the building envelope, with spectacular views of the harbour. And it will create a welcoming, car-free entrance under the Monumental Steps, and improve access to a more comfortable and inviting main foyer. In order to ensure the Renewal plans, The NSW Government has committed $202 million from the Cultural Infrastructure Fund.