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Why should you watch opera shows in Sydney?
UNESCO World Heritage Site
The modernist architectural masterpiece, a brainchild of architect Jørn Utzon and engineer Ove Arup, stands as a true testament to the creative vision and uncompromising values of its makers.
World-class performances
The Opera House has multiple performance spaces, including a 2,679-seater Concert Hall, that collectively host a variety of shows including opera, ballet, concerts, theatrical productions, and more.
The Australian experience
The Opera House is one of the quintessential symbols of Australian pride and identity. In addition to its status as a landmark, the venue was inspired by nature itself and serves Australian-inspired cuisine at its restaurants and bars.
Vivid Sydney
Sydney knows how to put on a show, especially when it involves the Opera House. See it in full glory during the world’s largest festival of music, lights, performances, food, and so much more.
What makes shows at Sydney Opera House special?
Architectural marvel
The entire Opera House structure is a sight to behold, but its interiors have been expertly designed to enhance the experience of its audience. Every corner is steeped in artistic beauty and the shows are staged in venues with stunning acoustics and excellent views all around.
Operatic excellence
The Opera House stages renowned shows like Tosca, II Trittico, Hamlet, Sunset Boulevard, and more. From Shakespearean classics to modern extravaganzas, the productions at this venue are of the highest caliber and are worth experiencing in person.
State-of-the-art facilities
The Opera House’s performance spaces underwent a multimillion-dollar upgrade in 2022 to make way for improved acoustics, better accessibility, top-notch machinery and staging systems, and better safety measures for performers and audiences.
A taste of Australia
The venue's restaurants and bars serve Australian-inspired cuisine set to one of the best skylines and views in the world. It is the epitome of cultural immersion that lets you see Sydney through its arts, legacy, and cuisine.
Know before you attend opera shows in Sydney
Timings
Getting there
Dress code
Dining
Etiquette
What time do Sydney opera shows usually begin?
- Shows at the Sydney Opera House generally start around 7:30 pm.
- It helps to arrive early so you have enough time to find your way around the venue and take in the artistry of its construction.
- Food and drink are generally not allowed at your seat, so plan to arrive even earlier if you'd like to grab a bite before your show.
What is the best time to visit the Sydney Opera House?
- If you're looking to catch a show, most of the productions at the Opera House start late evening.
- You can catch a few at matinees during the week as well, though, so be sure to check the venue's schedule beforehand.
- Opt for morning or weekday tours so you get to see more of the venue. Setup for evening shows starts by noon, so you'll see less of the larger performance spaces.
How long do Sydney tours and shows typically last?
- Shows at the Opera House generally run for 2-3 hours and will include at least one intermission.
- Tours of the Opera House typically go for 30 minutes to an hour.
Sydney Opera House: Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
- Bus: Take lines 115, 293, 304, 343, 333, 373X, 396X, 374X, and 165X to Circular Quay, near the Sydney Opera House. A free wheelchair-accessible bus runs from Wharf 2 of the Circular Quay to the Western Foyer of the Sydney Opera House, where an accessible lift is located.
- Train: The nearest train station is Circular Quay, which is a 6-min walk from the Sydney Opera House. Trains T3, T4, and T8 stop here.
- Taxi: The taxi rank is on Macquarie Street, past the Wilson's Carpark entrance.
- Parking: The Wilson Carpark at the end of 2 Macquarie Street is a 24-hour paid parking facility that connects to the Lower Concourse of the Sydney Opera House.
- Dress comfortably: There is no strict dress code for the Sydney Opera House. You’re encouraged to dress comfortably and appropriately for the occasion.
- Carry a sweater: Since most performance venues are airconditioned, carry an extra layer to stay warm.
- When in doubt: If you’re unsure what to wear, smart casuals are your best bet. You’ll fit in with most crowds and never feel too dressed up or down.
- Dress to impress for the opera: You might consider dressing up a bit more for certain shows, such as the opera, as these tend to be more formal affairs and you won’t feel out of place for being dressed to the nines.
- In-house dining: The Opera House has multiple in-house spaces that serve food and drinks. Explore the venue and you’re sure to find a variety of menu items to suit whatever mood you’re in.
- Best views: The most known spot is the House Canteen which serves Australian cuisine alongside a Harbor view.
- A quick drink or two: The Bennelong Bar is the perfect spot for a quick pre-show drink, but it’s also great to relax with a post-show round.
- Noon tea: Midden by Mark Olive is the place to be for high tea, especially if you’re watching a matinee show.
- Relax and dine: If you’re after something more laidback, treat yourself to fish and chips at The Harbour on the Northern Broadwalk.
- A night at the opera: While opera venues no longer expect audiences to dress formally, they do expect an etiquette of respect for the performers and fellow theater-goers during the show.
- Skip the coat and hat: If you choose to dress up, skip large or bulky items like huge coats or hats, as these could hinder the experience of patrons sitting near you.
- Leave the baggage at home: Avoid bringing large bags or bulky items to your seat as there is no place to store them.
- Phones down: Do not record the performances unless you have been given permission to do so. Additionally, keep all devices on silent during the performance.
- No food or drink: Do not bring food and drink to your seat unless you have a medical reason to do so.
- Clap along: Express your appreciation for the performance with applause but refrain from hooting, whistling, or tossing items on the stage - unless, of course, the performers encourage it!
Frequently asked questions about Sydney opera shows
Where can I watch the best Sydney opera shows?
Sydney is one of the entertainment capitals of the world. The Sydney Opera House, in particular, showcases some of the greatest classics in history as well as some of the most acclaimed modern shows. Its state-of-the-art facilities and global appeal make it one of the best places to catch a show, whether you're in for a musical, play, ballet, opera, or concert.
How much do tickets to Sydney opera shows cost?
Ticket prices vary depending on the show, date, seat chosen, season, and more. You can catch some shows like Great Opera Hits at the Opera House with tickets currently starting at AU $69 while others, like the musical Sunset Boulevard, start at AU$ 159.
Why are shows at the Sydney Opera House so famous?
The venue is famous for its architecture, the brainchild of architect Jørn Utzon later completed with the help of engineer Ove Arup, state-of-the-art facilities, and its successful staging of some of the greatest productions in music and theater history.
What are the different types of shows at the Sydney Opera House?
The venue hosts theatrical productions, including musicals and plays, operas, ballets, concerts, comedy shows, and even speeches and addresses. Some of its notable titles include Tosca, Hamlet, Gilgamesh, SIX: The Musical, and an address by Nelson Mandela.
What can you do inside the Sydney Opera House?
The Opera House is more than just a performance venue. It was designed as an art installation in and of itself and is a popular tourist destination. It also houses various art pieces and installations, restaurants and bars, and the Sydney Opera House Gift Shop.
Can I take photographs or record videos during an opera show?
Video recording inside the venue is strictly prohibited, especially during a show. Patrons may take photographs during tours but are advised to check with their guides whether any parts of the venue are off-limits for any form of recording.
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