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Three men and three women from different backgrounds stand on a yellow platform in front of the Sydney Opera House sails in front of an audience.

What Is the City but the People?

1 October 2023

Free event

A unique portrait of Sydney created by its people, showcasing the story, sentiments and soul of the city. Raised above the forecourt, citizens walk a 60 metre catwalk backed by live music, projected photographs and text. 

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Join us to celebrate the people of Sydney

A celebration of the people of Sydney. Raised above the forecourt, citizens walk a 60 metre catwalk backed by live music, large scale projected photographs and text, creating a unique portrait of people and place.

A work of the people by the people for the people, showcasing the story, sentiments and soul of the city. 

From an idea by Jeremy Deller, directed by Richard Gregory, the event is one of the opening events of the Sydney Opera House 50th Birthday Festival and is designed to showcase the incredible diversity of local people and communities.

Local Government Partner City of Sydney

City of Sydney
Three men and three women from different backgrounds stand on a yellow platform in front of the Sydney Opera House sails in front of an audience.

Artist information

Created by
the People of Sydney

Director
Richard Gregory

From an idea by
Jeremy Deller

Designer

Simon Banham

Writer
Felicity Castagna

Photographer
Joseph Mayers

AV Design
Ian Galloway

Music
Stereogamous

Choreographer
Emma Saunders

Originally commissioned and produced by Manchester International Festival

NSW Government

This program is proudly supported by the NSW Government through Create NSW Blockbusters Funding initiative

Other information

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