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Latest media releases
DanceRites 2023 winners announced
Monday 27 November 2023
Mui Mui Bumer Gedlam has claimed the top prize at DanceRites 2023 – Australia’s only national dance competition for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander groups – following two days of intense competition at the Sydney Opera House over the weekend.
The Necks return for their record 9th Opera House appearance
Monday 27 November 2023
Australia’s foremost improvised music trailblazers, The Necks, will return to the Opera House in February 2024 for an intimate two-night residency in the Playhouse showcasing their unmistakable genre-bending genius.
Opera House launches new Badu Gili sails projection exploring celestial navigation
Thursday 23 November 2023
The Sydney Opera House today announced it will launch a new chapter of its free, nightly First Nations sails lighting, Badu Gili, on December 15 with a dynamic projection displaying the works of two celebrated First Nations artists, Gail Mabo and Nikau Hindin.
Bessel van der Kolk to appear at the Sydney Opera House
Wednesday 22 November 2023
Author of the bestselling phenomenon The Body Keeps the Score and one of the world’s foremost experts on trauma, Bessel van der Kolk, will appear on the Concert Hall stage in March next year discussing his pioneering research into traumatic stress and its impact on our brains and bodies.
Beninese icon Angélique Kidjo returns to the Opera House to celebrate epic 40-year career
Tuesday 21 November 2023
Beninese icon and five-time Grammy winner Angélique Kidjo will return to the Sydney Opera House for one electrifying performance in the sonically reinvigorated Concert Hall in March 2024.
Cherished music series Utzon Music returns in 2024 for a triumphant 17th year
Monday 20 November 2023
The Sydney Opera House’s cherished music series Utzon Music returns in 2024 for a triumphant 17th year. Set in the intimate Utzon Room – with the exception of one very special detour to the Concert Hall – the year-round series showcases an incredible collection of the world’s leading chamber musicians and renowned soloists from western and eastern classical traditions.
Lonnie Holley, Moor Mother + Irreversible Entanglements at the Opera House
Tuesday 14 November 2023
The Sydney Opera House has announced that celebrated American visual artist and experimental musician Lonnie Holley will be joined by musician and activist Moor Mother and free jazz collective Irreversible Entanglements for a night of rapturous collaboration in the Utzon Room on February 26.
Kids and Families 2024 Program Announced
Tuesday 14 November 2023
The Sydney Opera House today announced the 2024 line-up for its Kids and Families program, featuring the stage premiere of beloved novel James and the Giant Peach, Ireland’s Polar Bear and Penguin, a new circus experience by the world-renowned Flying Fruit Fly Circus and a powerful Bangarra Dance Theatre work for children.
Unknown Mortal Orchestra and Steve Lacy at the Opera House this summer
Monday 6 November 2023
The Sydney Opera House today announced two electrifying contemporary music events over summer with genre-raiding psych-rockers Unknown Mortal Orchestra making their Concert Hall debut on January 30, and alternative R&B star Steve Lacy performing two shows in-the-round on 31 January and 1 February 2024.
Full program announced for DanceRites 2023
Wednesday 1 November
The Sydney Opera House today announced the full program for DanceRites 2023, a free celebration of First Nations dance, music, and culture taking place on the Opera House’s Forecourt on Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 November.
Black Country, New Road exclusive Australian debut performance
Wednesday 25 October
UK indie-rock outfit Black Country, New Road will make its Australian debut in the Opera House’s Concert Hall in March 2024, playing rousing tracks from their newly-released third album ‘Live at Bush Hall’.
Summer program announced for the Opera House's Centre for Creativity
Tuesday 24 October
The Sydney Opera House today announced the summer program for its purpose-built Centre for Creativity, with a line-up of 17 performances and participatory events – a mix of free and paid activities – including brand new experiences and regular favourites.
Sydney Opera House launches new film to celebrate 50 years of bravery and creativity
Wednesday 18 October
The Sydney Opera House today released a special musical tribute to mark 50 years of bravery, creativity and wonder at the world’s most celebrated cultural landmark.
Neil Gaiman and FourPlay String Quartet return for a world premiere performance
Thursday 12 October
Best-selling British author Neil Gaiman and Australia’s electric string quartet FourPlay will reunite for a world premiere performance of their debut album, Signs of Life, and a selection of unreleased material.
Mary Lattimore makes her Opera House debut in December 2023
Monday 9 October
Acclaimed American harpist and composer Mary Lattimore will make her Opera House debut in an intimate Utzon Room performance on December 4.
Ludovico Einaudi - Italian composer and pianist returns to the Sydney Opera House
Tuesday 3 October
Italian composer and pianist Ludovico Einaudi returns to the Sydney Opera House for four performances in the revitalised sonic surrounds of the Concert Hall from 2 – 5 February.
Sydney Opera House’s social value increases to $11.4 billion
Tuesday 3 October 2023
The social value Australians place on the Sydney Opera House has grown to $11.4 billion in its 50th year, according to a Deloitte Access Economics report released today.
Sydney Opera House reveals an epic digital artwork
Friday 29 September
An ambitious digital artwork created for the Opera House’s 50th anniversary will reimagine the sounds of the world-famous building in a unique audio-visual soundscape running for 744 hours across the entire month of October.
Australian exclusive return of Paul Weller to Sydney Opera House
Wednesday 27 September
British icon Paul Weller will take over the acoustically-transformed Concert Hall in February 2024, when he makes his only Australian appearance playing three Concert Hall performances in-the-round.
Sydney Opera House celebrates 50 years with a weekend of free events
Thursday 21 September
The Sydney Opera House will open its doors to the public for its first open day in eight years, welcoming thousands of visitors behind-the-scenes to celebrate the building’s 50th birthday.
Sydney Opera House announces huge 2024 Creative Learning program
Thursday 21 September
The Sydney Opera House has released its huge 2024 Creative Learning program, a curated year-round calendar of performances, workshops, tours, talks and digital learning experiences for primary and secondary students across Australia.
Australian Premiere Season for MALEVO
Tuesday 19 September
With heart-pounding energy, fiery passion, and blazing raw talent, the Argentinian men of Malevo are set to heat up the Concert Hall this summer in their Australian debut.
Yussef Dayes - UK jazz inspiration returns to the Sydney Opera House
Monday 18 September
Contemporary British jazz luminary Yussef Dayes will make a triumphant return to the Sydney Opera House in March 2024.
Soul legend Lee Fields announces Sydney Opera House debut
Friday 15 September
Seminal figure of classic American soul Lee Fields will make his Opera House debut this November with special guests Surprise Chef.
DanceRites returns to the Opera House Forecourt
Wednesday 13 September
Australia’s only national dance competition for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander groups, DanceRites, returns to the Sydney Opera House Forecourt this November.
Chicago alt-rock legends Wilco make their long-awaited return to the Opera House
Tuesday 12 September
Celebrating 30 years of music, Grammy Award-winning alt-rock band Wilco will return to the Sydney Opera House on Thursday 21 March for one long-awaited performance in the acoustically-transformed Concert Hall.
Circus 1903 returns to the Sydney Opera House
Tuesday 5 September
Roll up, roll up! Internationally acclaimed Circus 1903 will make its triumphant return to the Sydney Opera House this festive season. With magic and marvels bigger and better than ever before, it will take over the Concert Hall in a strictly limited run from 21-29 December.
Caroline Polachek announces final Sydney headline show at the Opera House
Monday 4 September 2023
Due to overwhelming demand, the Sydney Opera House is thrilled to announce Caroline Polachek has added a final Sydney headline performance in the Concert Hall on Monday 4 December, 2023.
Sydney Opera House reveals 50/50 archival program
Wednesday 30 August 2023
The Opera House has unveiled a program of 50 films, many rare and unseen, available for free and to audiences everywhere as part of its 50th birthday celebrations.
GATSBY at The Green Light
Tuesday 29 August 2023
In a world-premiere event, GATSBY at The Green Light will transform the Sydney Opera House’s Studio into an unmissable experience this summer from 16 December 2023 to 25 February 2024.
Jamie Oliver returns to the Sydney Opera House
Wednesday 23 August 2023
Eight years since his sold-out Opera House appearance in 2015, chef, TV star, child health campaigner and author Jamie Oliver returns to the Concert Hall stage on Saturday 11 November 2023 for an entertaining and in depth conversation with Melissa Leong about his career, his inspiration and what keeps him motivated.
Sparks - US cult favourite makes long awaited Sydney Opera House debut
Tuesday 22 August 2023
One of pop’s most influential and beloved cult bands, Sparks, will perform at the Sydney Opera House for the first time in their 50+ year career for one spectacular career-spanning night in the acoustically-transformed Concert Hall.
Taylor Mac's Queer Extravaganza in World Premiere at the Sydney Opera House
Thursday 17 August
In an Australian exclusive event, queer rock opera Bark of Millions by celebrated artists Taylor Mac and Matt Ray will have its world premiere at the Sydney Opera House as part of the cultural landmark’s 50th Birthday Festival.
Fran Lebowitz returns to the Sydney Opera House
Tuesday 8 August 2023
In a Sydney exclusive event, renowned writer, humorist and social commentator Fran Lebowitz will appear live on stage at the Sydney Opera House on February 13, 2024.
Leading experts in AI question what does it mean to be human?
Wednesday 8 August 2023
In a one-off event at the Sydney Opera House, evolutionary biologist Rob Brooks and artificial intelligence expert Toby Walsh will appear in conversation with Rae Johnston on Sunday 10 September to explore the impact of developing AI on humanity.
Dog Man: The Musical Unleashed at the Opera House this Summer Holidays
Tuesday 1 August 2023
The Sydney Opera House today announced that DOG MAN: The Musical will lead an exciting line-up of new shows, special lunch menus and an animation festival for its summer school holidays program.
Iconic artist Sting’s music inspires latest work from five-time Olivier Award nominee Kate Prince
Wednesday 26 July 2023
In an Australian premiere, spectacular new dance-theatre work Message In A Bottle from award-winning choreographer Kate Prince, set to the music of 17-time Grammy Award-winning artist Sting, is coming to the Joan Sutherland Theatre this October as part of the Opera House's 50th Birthday Festival.
Sydney Opera House appoints Michael Hutchings as Head of First Nations Programming
Thursday 20 July 2023
The Sydney Opera House today announced that Michael Hutchings, of Arrernte heritage from Central Australia, has been appointed to the role of Head of First Nations Programming.
New spring program announced for the Centre for Creativity
Wednesday 19 July 2023
The Opera House today announced the line-up of events, creative experiences and hands-on workshops that will take place in its Centre for Creativity from September to November.
Rehearsals commence ahead of Sweeney Todd at the Sydney Opera House
Tuesday 4 July 2023
The residents of Fleet Street have arrived in town ahead of the Sydney Opera House season of Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, with rehearsals now underway for the murderous musical opening on July 22.
Journalists Chris Masters & Nick McKenzie in Sydney exclusive event
Wednesday 28 June 2023
In a Sydney exclusive event, Chris Masters and Nick McKenzie, the investigative journalists who reported allegations on Ben Roberts-Smith’s war crimes, will appear in Reporting for Duty at the Sydney Opera House on 30 July.
Sydney Opera House announces month-long 50th Birthday Festival for October
Tuesday 20 June 2023
A month-long series of free community events, world-premieres, contemporary performance and public art has been announced for the Sydney Opera House’s 50th Birthday Festival in October.
Sydney Opera House announces new season of Outlines, showcasing boundary-pushing digital works
Wednesday 15 June 2023
The Sydney Opera House today announced the second season of Outlines, a playful, provocative showcase of artists that are embracing and disrupting digital platforms and technology.
Sydney Opera House debut for Restless Dance Theatre
Tuesday 13 June 2023
In their Sydney Opera House debut, Australia’s leading inclusive dance theatre company, Restless Dance Theatre, will present their acclaimed new work Exposed - in the Studio from 30 August to 3 September.
New restaurant Midden by Mark Olive opening at the Opera House in July
Tuesday 13 June 2023
A new restaurant, Midden by Mark Olive, will open at the Opera House on Tuesday 4 July with celebrated Indigenous Australian chef and Bundjalung man Mark Olive at the helm.
Sydney Opera House and the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia announce free performance art series
Tuesday 6 June 2023
From June to September, free performance art is taking centre stage with Performances on the Quay, a series of evening programs jointly presented by the Sydney Opera House and Museum of Contemporary Art Australia (MCA), supported by the NSW Government’s Culture Up Late initiative.
New Hidden House tour opens up more of the Opera House during its 50th year
Tuesday 30 May
The Sydney Opera House has announced a brand new intimate tour, Hidden House, launching for a limited-run from June to October in celebration of the Opera House’s 50th anniversary year.
The Academy of St Martin in the Fields return to Australia in October with virtuoso violinist Joshua Bell as Music Director
Tuesday 23 May 2023
The Sydney Opera House has announced the return of the Academy of St Martin in the Fields (ASMF) in October 2023, its first Australian tour in six years, with virtuoso violinist Joshua Bell as Music Director.
Opera House announces pop-up bar and restaurant during Vivid Sydney
Thursday 18 May 2023
A psychedelic Bob Dylan-inspired pop-up bar, fried chicken ramen, neon-lit harbourside dining, and outdoor food trucks. There’s plenty of ways to eat and drink your way around the Sydney Opera House during this year’s Vivid LIVE as part of Vivid Sydney (26 May – 17 June).
Sydney Opera House achieves world-leading sustainable performance rating
Wednesday 17 May 2023
The Sydney Opera House has been awarded a 6 Star Green Star Performance rating by the Green Building Council Australia (GBCA), representing world leadership in environmental and social sustainability.
The Demon Barber comes to Sydney Opera House
Tuesday 9 May 2023
With generous servings of greed, lust, and vengeance, Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street is coming to the Sydney Opera House this winter from 22 July to 27 August.
Artworks revealed for Vivid Sydney Lighting of the Sails: Life Enlivened 2023 by John Olsen and Curiious
Monday 8 May 2023
Acclaimed Australian artist John Olsen’s vibrant paintings of life and energy within the natural world will illuminate the Sydney Opera House’s sails in the annual Lighting of the Sails for Vivid Sydney from 26 May - 17 June 2023.
Arlo Parks - UK soul-pop poet makes her Sydney Opera House debut
Tuesday 2 May 2023
Grammy-nominated UK indie soul star Arlo Parks will bring her brand of dazzling intimacy to the Concert Hall on Thursday 20 July for her Sydney Opera House debut.
Sketching, weaving, painting and singing workshops in the Opera House’s Centre for Creativity this winter
Wednesday 26 April
The Sydney Opera House has announced a huge winter program for its Centre for Creativity, featuring 16 participatory workshops, talks and classes running from July to September.
Picture This! Slide Night premieres at the Opera House this June
Wednesday 19 April 2023
A brand-new comedic offering is coming to the Sydney Opera House this winter, with Slide Night! set to premiere in the Playhouse from 15 – 25 June.
An Evening with Alison Roman
Thursday 23 March 2023
The Sydney Opera House today announced that New York-based cook, writer, and author Alison Roman will appear live in the Concert Hall to close out her first Australian tour.
Vivid LIVE 2023 full line-up revealed
Tuesday 14 March 2023
The Sydney Opera House today revealed the full line-up for its centrepiece contemporary music event, Vivid LIVE 2023, taking place from Friday 26 May – Saturday 17 June as part of Vivid Sydney, Australia’s largest festival of light, music, ideas, and – this year – food.
ARETHA, A Love Letter to the Queen of Soul, coming to the Sydney Opera House
Tuesday 7 March 2023
ARETHA, a powerful memoir that celebrates the life and music of one of the greatest voices in history, will have its world premiere in the Sydney Opera House’s Concert Hall on 17 and 18 June.
Sydney Opera House unveils latest UnWrapped line-up championing women’s voices creating genre-crossing work
Wednesday 15 February 2023
The Sydney Opera House today unveiled its latest UnWrapped line-up, championing women artists creating bold contemporary work.
Damien Rice comeback tour
Tuesday 14 February 2023
Legendary Irish troubadour Damien Rice will return to Australia to make his highly-anticipated Sydney Opera House debut in the Concert Hall on Thursday 11 May, for a night of classic songs, wry banter and emotional power.
Succession star Brian Cox leads the Opera House’s original new interview series, On the Level
Tuesday 7 February 2023
Emmy Award-winning actor Brian Cox features in On the Level, a new interview series catching up with artists to discuss their careers, inspirations, and preparations during their Sydney Opera House visit.
Sydney Opera House and Archie Rose announce new partnership
Tuesday 31 January 2023
The Sydney Opera House and Sydney distillery, Archie Rose Distilling Co. today announced a new three-year partnership that will bring together Australia’s premier cultural institution with the country’s most highly-awarded distillery.
Opera House launches new kids program of theatre, music & workshops
Tuesday 31 January 2023
The Sydney Opera House has unveiled its 2023 Kids and Families program featuring an array of local and international performances, workshops and experiences to inspire the next generation of creative thinkers
Inspiring new workshops announced for the Centre for Creativity
Tuesday 24 January 2023
The Sydney Opera House today announced an inspiring new line-up of public programs, workshops and experiences for all ages in its Centre for Creativity from February to May.
all about women 2023
Tuesday 17 January 2023
The Sydney Opera House today announced an extraordinary line-up of 25 events featuring more than 60 international and Australian artists, thinkers, and storytellers for the 11th All About Women festival, its centrepiece talks festival about gender, justice, and equality.
Opera House plates up new fish and chip pop-up as part of 50th anniversary celebrations
Wednesday 28 December 2022
The Opera House has fish and chips on the menu this summer with the opening of The Harbour, a pop-up eatery on the Opera House’s northern broadwalk serving sustainably-sourced fresh seafood, crisp-fried fish, golden crunchy chips, takeaway classics like potato scallops, and one of the best views in Sydney.
Sydney Opera House Presents Utzon Music 2023
Monday 5 December 2022
The Sydney Opera House’s much-loved chamber music program Utzon Music returns for its 16th year in 2023, showcasing a curated collection of the world’s boldest and most innovative ensembles and soloists from Western and Eastern classical traditions.
Kurt Vile || Long awaited return of Philadelphia’s laid-back psych-pop master
Wednesday 30 November 2022
Beloved Philadelphia psych rocker Kurt Vile will make his highly anticipated return to the Sydney Opera House after seven years with his band The Violators, playing fan favourites and music from his recent album, (watch my moves), for one special night in the Concert Hall on Friday 31 March.
First details for All About Women 2023 announced by Sydney Opera House
Tuesday 29 November 2022
The Sydney Opera House today announced the first details for its 11th annual All About Women festival, taking place over three days for the first time – on Saturday 11 March, Sunday 12 March and Monday 13 March 2023. Marking the week of International Women’s Day, the Opera House’s centrepiece talks festival will include panels, conversations, workshops and performances presented on site and online in a vibrant forum for inclusive ideas on gender, justice and equality.
Mdou Moctar
Friday 25 November 2022
Niger's shred prince Mdou Moctar will make his scorching Sydney Opera House debut on 14 and 15 March, 2023, bringing his full band for two nights of fiery psychedelic rock, Tuareg blues and innovative guitar wizardry in the intimate Utzon Room. Tickets are on sale from 9am today.
The Mirror
Wednesday 16 November 2022
The Mirror, a new high-energy acrobatic work by Australian circus and physical theatre company Gravity & Other Myths (GOM), will have its Australian premiere in the Sydney Opera House’s Studio from 9 February - 5 March 2023.
Future Islands || Euphoric synth-pop heroes take over the Concert Hall in February
Tuesday 15 November 2022
Baltimore post-wave four-piece Future Islands will make their blistering Sydney Opera House debut in the Concert Hall on Sunday 19 February, with one unforgettable night of soaring songs, apocalyptic emotions and rapturous dancing.
Universally acclaimed ONE WOMAN SHOW coming to the Sydney Opera House
Thursday 10 November 2022
One Woman Show, a new subversive work of comedic theatre from Australian writer Liz Kingsman and directed by Adam Brace, will premiere at the Sydney Opera House in an Australian exclusive from 1 - 19 February, 2023.
Kae Tempest
Wednesday 9 November 2022
Acclaimed British poet, writer, rapper and spoken-word performer Kae Tempest will make their Opera House debut as part of Sydney WorldPride, delivering a transformative live show in the renewed Concert Hall on 18 February 2023.
Grammy-nominated early music virtuoso Jordi Savall returns to the renewed Concert Hall in February 2023
Monday 7 November, 2022
Revered Spanish conductor, composer, and viola da gamba master Jordi Savall will be joined by early music ensemble Hespèrion XXI to perform vibrant music from the Renaissance and Baroque eras in the Opera House’s acoustically renewed Concert Hall on 28 February 202
BIKINI KILL - Reunited 'riot grrrl' icons make their Sydney Opera House debut
Thursday 27 October, 2022
Legendary punk rockers Bikini Kill will make their long-awaited Sydney Opera House debut as part of its 50th anniversary year, for one show only on 13 March, 2023. The all-female US group will bring their defiant sound and fury to the acoustically renewed Concert Hall, performing music from their iconic feminist songbook including the anthemic hit, “Rebel Girl”.
Two special performances in the renewed Concert Hall in 2023
Tuesday 25 October 2022
The Sydney Opera House today announced two special music events in the acoustically-transformed Concert Hall in 2023 during its 50th anniversary year. Legendary Lebanese composer, singer and oud player Marcel Khalifé returns after 10 years for a special performance alongside his son, pianist Rami Khalifé on 6 February 2023. Celebrating its own 50 years, San Francisco’s three-time Grammy Award-winning Kronos Quartet return on 14 March 2023 showcasing their ground-breaking sound that redefined classical music.
Sold-out Khruangbin concert to be livestreamed to audiences worldwide
Friday 21 October 2022
The Sydney Opera House today announced that upcoming sold-out performance by Texas psychedelic trio Khruangbin will be livestreamed from the Opera House’s newly-transformed Concert Hall to audiences worldwide. Hosted on Stream, the Opera House’s online streaming platform showcasing world-class performing and digital arts, the live event will kick off at 8pm AEDT on Sunday 27 November, 2022 and will be available to watch for seven days, with tickets now on-sale to fans anywhere in the world.
Angel Olsen - a once-in-a-generation talent returns with stunning new music in March 2023
Wednesday 19 October 2022
Mesmeric American indie rocker Angel Olsen will return to the Opera House after a six-year hiatus for a Sydney exclusive performance in the renewed Concert Hall on 6 March, 2023.
Summer program announced to celebrate one year of the Opera House's Centre for Creativity
Tuesday 18 October 2022
The Sydney Opera House today announced a huge summer program for its Centre for Creativity with 16 hands-on and participatory events across December, January and February, marking one year since the venue opened its doors to the public in January 2022. Free and paid experiences, from dance workshops for seniors, to participatory choirs, an architecture club and a special introduction to music for babies, will encourage creativity and play amongst audiences of all ages.
House Canteen, a new harbourside dining destination at the Sydney Opera House
Wednesday 5 October 2022
The Opera House is excited to welcome the House Canteen to its line-up of popular bars and restaurants from Thursday 13 October. Currently trading as Opera Kitchen, the eatery – located right next door to its iconic neighbour Opera Bar – will relaunch under Matt Moran and hospitality group Solotel as an all-day, canteen-inspired dining venue with show-stopping views of Sydney Harbour.
November Forecourt Concert Series
Wednesday 5 October 2022
From 10 – 19 November, the Sydney Opera House will present a special outdoor concert series including two free concerts as part of its year-long 50th anniversary celebrations. Set beneath the iconic sails, the Forecourt will provide a stunning backdrop to a six-night showcase of vibrant contemporary music, in celebration of the Opera House’s five decades of creativity and inspiration.
Sydney Opera House announces year-long celebration for its 50th anniversary
Wednesday 28 September 2022
The Sydney Opera House today announced the first line-up in its unmissable 50th anniversary program. Beginning in October 2022, and culminating at its 50th birthday in 2023, the Opera House will celebrate five decades of extraordinary creativity with a year-long season of special events for the whole community, supported by the NSW Government’s Blockbusters Funding initiative.
Elvis Costello returns to the Opera House for two career-spanning performances
Wednesday 14 September 2022
The Sydney Opera House today announced that multi-award winning singer-songwriter and rock ’n’ roll hall of famer Elvis Costello will return to the Concert Hall for the first time in 17 years. Costello first played the Opera House in 1984 with The Attractions, then returned in 1985 to play alongside T-Bone Burnett. His most recent Opera House appearance was in 2006 as part of Sydney Festival in a very special collaboration with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra.
Celebrate New Year’s Eve with Peter Shaffer’s gripping Amadeus and exclusive food and beverage packages
Tuesday 30 August 2022
The Opera House today announced a lavish New Year’s Eve experience featuring the gripping new production of Amadeus, unparalleled views of the world-famous fireworks, an opulent dining experience, and a post-show party to ring in the new year. Tickets go on sale to the general public on Friday 2 September.
School holidays entertainment heats up at the Opera House this summer
Monday 29 August 2022
From book lovers to science fanatics and young music enthusiasts, there’s something for every kid in the Sydney Opera House’s newly-announced summer holiday program. Led by the internationally acclaimed stage adventure Operation Ouch! Live on Stage – Not for the Squeamish (24 – 25 January) in the renewed Concert Hall, the program also features Make Some Noise! by the dynamic comedy duo The Listies (4 – 20 January), and a charming page to stage adaptation of Alison Lester’s summertime classic Are We There Yet? (2 – 22 January). The Opera House’s much-loved free Creative Play program returns with Wild City (3 – 15 January), an ecological workshop from sculptural artist Kathy Holowko.
Sydney Opera House unveils latest UnWrapped line-up championing women’s voices creating genre-crossing work
Wednesday 15 February 2023
The Sydney Opera House today unveiled its latest UnWrapped line-up, championing women artists creating bold contemporary work.
The London Symphony Orchestra Conducted by Sir Simon Rattle
Monday 15 August 2022
The London Symphony Orchestra (LSO) will make a triumphant return to Australia in April-May 2023 with internationally revered conductor, Sir Simon Rattle leading his final season as LSO Music Director.
Media Release: Lu Yang DOKU, The Binary World
Monday 8 August 2022
The Sydney Opera House today announced the live motion capture performance, DOKU, The Binary World by Shanghai-based new media artist Lu Yang, will have its world premiere in October. Live performances featuring dancers on stage in Sydney and in Hong Kong will use motion capture technology to control otherworldly avatars interacting in a virtual world, visible in both locations. The series of co-located performances will take place from 7 – 9 October 2022 in the Opera House’s Utzon Room, and at Freespace in Hong Kong’s West Kowloon Cultural District.
Velvet Rewired in the Studio this summer
Tuesday 2 August 2022
A glittering spectacle of circus, cabaret and a love-letter to disco, Velvet Rewired will be presented in the Opera House Studio from 22 December 2022 – 12 February 2023. The fabulous Marcia Hines (Jesus Christ Superstar, HAIR) reprises her role from the hit-show Velvet as the “Diva”.
World premiere of After The Flood in the Centre for Creativity
Tuesday 2 August 2022
The world premiere of immersive audio installation and workshop After the Flood, a hopeful tale about how communities thrive in the future despite the climate crisis, leads the Opera House’s spring program of hands-on participatory events and experiences in its Centre for Creativity.
Tamikrest to bring smouldering desert blues in their Australian debut at the Opera House
Monday 1 August 2022
Hailing from the Sahara Desert region of Mali, West Africa’s powerhouse desert blues collective Tamikrest will bring their singular combination of Tamasheq music and rebel rock for an unmissable night in the Drama Theatre on Monday 31 October, for their much-anticipated Australian debut tour.
An Evening with David Sedaris
Thursday 28 July 2022
The Sydney Opera House today announced that critically acclaimed American author and humourist David Sedaris returns to the renewed Concert Hall for one night only in February 2023, as part of a highly anticipated national Australian tour.
NICK CAVE & WARREN ELLIS Australian Carnage Tour to Culminate with Two Nights in the Concert Hall
Tuesday 26 July 2022
With two very special performances at the iconic Hanging Rock in the Macedon Ranges now sold out, Australian music legends Nick Cave and Warren Ellis have announced a national run of Australian Carnage dates, bringing their iconic discography to the newly refurbished Concert Hall across two nights this December. The epic tour finale is part of the Sydney Opera House’s 50th anniversary program, a year-long season of special events and performances running from October 2022 – October 2023, supported by the NSW Government.
New Zealand soul fire collective Fat Freddy's Drop returns for a massive party under the stars
Monday 18 July 2022
The Sydney Opera House today announced that high energy New Zealand soul fire collective Fat Freddy’s Drop will perform one massive night on the Forecourt this November, as part of its monumental year-long 50th anniversary program.
Sydney Opera House unveils historic Concert Hall upgrade
Thursday 14 July 2022
The Sydney Opera House today revealed the transformation of its largest performance space, the Concert Hall. After more than two years of extensive renewal works, the renowned venue reopens to the public next week (20 July).
AMADEUS by Peter Shaffer
Tuesday 12 July 2022
Acclaimed Welsh actor and producer Michael Sheen (The Twilight Saga, Frost/Nixon, The Queen, Tron: Legacy, Masters of Sex, Good Omens, Amadeus) will star as Salieri in a gripping new production of Peter Shaffer’s Tony and Academy Award®-winning masterpiece Amadeus. Portraying the glorious artistic rivalry of two great classical composers – Salieri and Mozart – the show is the first event to be announced as part of the Opera House’s year-long 50th anniversary celebrations, supported by the NSW Government. The ambitious contemporary production combines theatre, opera and classical music with lavish costumes directed by Australian fashion house Romance Was Born. It will be staged in the newly transformed Concert Hall from 27 December, 2022 – 21 January, 2023.
Antidote 2022 line-up announced by Sydney Opera House
Tuesday 28 June 2022
The Sydney Opera House today announced the unmissable line-up for its sixth annual Antidote festival, taking place on site and online on Sunday 11 September, 2022. The festival of ideas, art and change will feature 17 talks, conversations and panels, four workshops and an art activation, offering the community a vigorous platform to confront the challenges of a changing world, to find solace and strength in collective purpose, and to mark and celebrate cultural and social transformation.
Grammy-nominated Kamasi Washington will perform in the renewed Concert Hall in December 2022
Monday 27 June 2022
The Sydney Opera House today announced that Grammy-nominated multi-instrumentalist, producer and composer Kamasi Washington will return to the Opera House on 4 December, bringing his fearless mix of jazz, hip-hop, classical and R&B to an Australian exclusive performance in the renewed Concert Hall. After stunning audiences in sold-out Opera House appearances in 2018 and 2019, the Los-Angeles born jazz visionary will perform in the newly transformed Concert Hall when the venue reopens in mid-2022 after more than two years of extensive upgrades.
Julia Hales’ You Know We Belong Together in the Drama Theatre
Tuesday 21 June 2022
Coming to the Opera House after seasons at Edinburgh International Festival and London’s Southbank Centre, acclaimed actor, writer, daughter and person with Down syndrome Julia Hales (ABC TV’s The Upside) brings the joyous play You Know We Belong Together to the Drama Theatre this September.
Sublime live chamber music continues in 2022 with Utzon Music
Monday 20 June 2022
The Sydney Opera House today announced the second part of the popular Utzon Music program for 2022. From July to October, the much-loved chamber music program will feature some of the world’s boldest and most innovative classical ensembles and soloists, up-close and personal in the intimate Utzon Room – the only performance space designed entirely by Opera House architect Jørn Utzon.
L’Hôtel: The immersive world of French intrigue coming to Sydney
Wednesday 15 June 2022
L’Hôtel, the immersive theatrical experience featuring the crème de la crème of performers from cabaret, burlesque, aerial and circus, will have its Sydney premiere season in the Opera House’s Studio from 12 October to 13 November 2022.
Deejay x Dancer: Inspired by the legendary block parties of New York
Tuesday 31 May 2022
Inspired by the legendary block parties of 1970s New York, acclaimed Sydney-based choreographer Nick Power (Two Crews, Between Tiny Cities) will premiere Deejay x Dancer from 17 – 21 August in the Opera House’s Studio.
Huge winter program announced for the Opera House's new Centre for Creativity
Thursday 19 May 2022
The Sydney Opera House today announced the full winter program for its newly-opened Centre for Creativity, with a line-up of brand new workshops hosted by the artists and artistic directors behind FANGIRLS The Musical, Bangarra Dance Theatre’s Terrain and Flying Fruit Fly Circus’ Tempo.
Boublil & Schönberg’s Do You Hear The People Sing? An extraordinary and rare celebration of one of the world’s finest musical theatre collaborations
Tuesday 3 May 2022
Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg will travel to Australia together for the first time in 25 years for the Australian premiere of the concert spectacular Do You Hear The People Sing?. Presented in the transformed Sydney Opera House Concert Hall from 30 September – 2 October, it will feature a 24 piece orchestra, 12 person choir, and international musical theatre stars performing hit songs from the duo’s record-breaking musicals including Les Misérables and Miss Saigon.
Four weeks until Sydney Opera House sails are transformed with a ground-breaking First Nations animation
Friday 29 April 2022
A new digital artwork Yarrkalpa - Hunting Ground, 2021 by the Martu Artists and Curiious (Inspired by Yarrkalpa – Always Walking Country 2014) will illuminate the Sydney Opera House sails from 27 May – 18 June for Vivid Sydney. The annual festival of Light, Music and Ideas will transform the Harbour City over 23 nights, with more than 200 events celebrating the essence of Sydney’s soul including its diversity, beauty, resilience, First Nations culture, and vibrant creative community.
Free open-air dance performance on the Opera House Monumental Steps
Wednesday 13 April 2022
The Sydney Opera House today announced a free site-specific work, ENCOUNTER SYDNEY, on the Opera House Forecourt this May, following a highly-acclaimed world premiere at Sydney Festival in 2020.
Smash-hit musical sensation FANGIRLS coming to the Sydney Opera House
Tuesday 29 March 2022
The smash-hit musical sensation FANGIRLS, which celebrates the misunderstood power and passion of teenage fandom, will be presented in the Opera House’s Drama Theatre from 28 July – 4 September, 2022. The critically-acclaimed Australian musical returns to Sydney after sold-out seasons at Belvoir and the Seymour Centre, which garnered an ARIA nomination (Best Original Soundtrack or Musical Theatre Cast Album 2021) and Winner of Sydney Theatre Award for Best Mainstage Musical 2019.
Khruangbin to make Sydney Opera House debut in November 2022
Monday 28 March 2022
The Sydney Opera House today announced that three-piece Texan band Khruangbin will perform in the Concert Hall on 27 November, bringing their bass-heavy sound of psychedelic grooves and surf-rock cool to the world-famous venue for the very first time. Khruangbin, which translates to airplane or "Engine Fly" in Thai, will make its thrilling and long-awaited Opera House debut on stage in the renewed Concert Hall, after the venue reopens in mid-2022 following two years of extensive upgrades.
UnWrapped (May - June)
Wednesday 23 March 2022
The Sydney Opera House presents new work responding to the ever-evolving landscape as part of the latest season of UnWrapped. From May – June, the bi-annual event will feature work from Emmy Award-winning filmmaker and artist Lynette Wallworth as part of a world premiere season of HOW TO LIVE (After You Die), and the critically acclaimed RUNT, a gripping and gritty theatrical piece by long time collaborators Patricia Cornelius, Susie Dee and Nicci Wilks (SHIT, Sydney Festival).
Every Body Dance Now
Wednesday 23 March 2022
The Opera House welcomes the return of its popular Every Body Dance Now program following a sold-out season in 2021 with over 2,000 ticket registrations. This April, a brand new season will transform the Studio into a jubilant dancefloor over four nights, inviting people of all ages and abilities to share in the joy of dance.
World premiere: ARC by Erth
Tuesday 22 March 2022
A new large-scale participatory work by award-winning physical theatre and puppetry company Erth will have its world premiere as part of the Opera House’s 2022 Children, Families and Creative Learning program in September. ARC will invite children and families to get up-close-and-personal with extinct and critically endangered animals such as snow leopards, hammerhead sharks, microbats, and elephants, brought to life by Erth’s awe-inspiring and lifelike puppets.
Vivid LIVE 2022 full line-up revealed
Wednesday 16 March 2022
The Sydney Opera House today revealed the full line-up for its centrepiece contemporary music event, Vivid LIVE 2022, taking place from 27 May – 18 June as part of Vivid Sydney, the annual creative festival that showcases the soul of the city, in collaboration with the most brilliant and boundary-pushing artists, thinkers and musicians of our time.
This Is Personal
Tuesday 8 March 2022
Mary Coustas, the celebrated Australian comedian, actress, writer and creator of the iconic 90s character Effie, will premiere her most intimate show to date, This Is Personal, in the Opera House’s Playhouse from 25 – 29 May 2022. The performance on 28 May at 7.30pm will be livestreamed to audiences around the world via the Opera House's online streaming platform, Stream.
LEON BRIDGES
Monday 7 March 2022
The Sydney Opera House today announced Grammy Award-winning, Texan R&B artist and songwriter Leon Bridges will perform on stage in the renewed Concert Hall on Monday 3 October, 2022. The world-famous venue is due to reopen in mid-2022 after more than two years of extensive upgrades, which will transform the live experience for artists and audiences. The multi-million-dollar renewal project, funded by the NSW Government, will equip the venue for the full spectrum of 21st century performance, providing better sound, better access, and giving artists greater capacity to realise their creative vision.
Becoming Eliza
Tuesday 1 March 2022
Australian-grown international star and soprano Anna O’Byrne will reveal the story of working with Dame Julie Andrews and perform Andrews’ iconic songs in the world premiere of Becoming Eliza, at the Sydney Opera House from 9 – 12 June 2022.
Bulnuruwanha (Taking Flight) at the Centre for Creativity
Thursday 24 February 2022
The world premiere of performance and workshop experience Bulnuruwanha (Taking Flight) by Wiradjuri woman and Bangarra Dance Theatre dancer Emily Flannery will lead the Opera House’s autumn program in its newly-opened Centre for Creativity. The program features 15 new participatory events – a mix of free and paid activities for all ages – as well as the continuation of popular community experiences.
Returning: Chapter 2
Wednesday 23 February 2022
The Sydney Opera House in association with Taiwan Contemporary Culture Lab (C-LAB) and the Ministry of Culture, Taiwan, today launched the second chapter of Returning: a serial digital exhibition by artists from Asia and Australia that poetically explores the impacts of the pandemic.
PENN & TELLER
Tuesday 22 February 2022
Legendary magic duo Penn & Teller will bring their record-breaking Las Vegas live show to the Sydney Opera House from 1-11 June 2022 as part of their first ever Australian tour.
All About Women 2022: New speakers and events announced
Wednesday 2 February 2022
The Sydney Opera House today announced new speakers, performers and events for its tenth annual All About Women festival, taking place onsite on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 March 2022 and livestreamed to audiences across Australia and the world.
Tröll: A fable from the twitchy edges of the digital age in the April school holidays
Tuesday 18 January 2022
The internationally-acclaimed Tröll by Aotearoa New Zealand theatre company Trick of the Light will excite young audiences ages 8+ these April school holidays with a clash of modern and mythic storytelling in the vein of Stranger Things.
Sydney Opera House opened Centre for Creativity to the public today
Tuesday 4 January 2022
The Sydney Opera House opened its new Centre for Creativity to the public today with House Warming, a free and interactive installation from visual artist Rosie Deacon. Delighted adults, children and families explored and contributed to the forest-like environment of the installation, which will evolve as a living site-specific work created by the community until it closes on January 16.
All About Women 2022 line-up announced by Sydney Opera House
Thursday 16 December 2021
The Sydney Opera House today announced the inspiring line-up for its annual centrepiece feminist festival All About Women, a vibrant forum for discussions of gender, justice and equality taking place onsite on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 March 2022 and livestreamed to audiences across Australia and the world. Marking the week of International Women’s Day, the festival will celebrate its 10th anniversary in 2022, with talks, panels, performances, contemporary art and workshops led by an outstanding program of international and Australian artists, thinkers and storytellers.
Members of the public invited to join climate action leaders for a free thought-provoking event
Wednesday 8 December 2021
The Sydney Opera House and Sydney Festival will co-present a timely, free event in January exploring the themes of THAW, an epic aerial performance work at the Opera House by internationally renowned local physical theatre-makers Legs On The Wall. Members of the public can register in advance to speak at the free soapbox-style event, taking place in the Drama Theatre foyer on Sunday 16 January, 2022.
Sydney Opera House and the British Council launch a free season of new UK digital performance works available to watch on Stream
Tuesday 7 December 2021
The Sydney Opera House and the British Council today launch a new cutting-edge digital performance program for the UK/Australia Season, the largest cultural exchange between Australia and the United Kingdom celebrating the diverse and innovative artist communities of each nation. Available for a limited time on Stream, the Opera House’s dedicated streaming platform, the first 10 releases will showcase the diverse voices and cultures of contemporary United Kingdom as the works explore the question ‘Who Are We Now?’.
Rediscover live chamber music in 2022 with Utzon Music
Monday 6 December 2021
The Sydney Opera House embarks on a new season of Utzon Music in 2022. The intimate annual concert series offers the unique opportunity to hear superb solo artists and small ensembles up-close and personal in the exquisite Utzon Room – the only performance space designed entirely by Opera House architect Jørn Utzon. The 2022 season will be presented in two parts: Part 1 (March-June) and Part 2 (July-December).
The Umbilical Brothers’ rollicking new show: The Distraction
Tuesday 30 November 2021
The International comedy phenomenon The Umbilical Brothers will present their rambunctious new show The Distraction, smashing together the spectacle of cinema and the energy of live performance from 15 - 27 February 2022 in the Playhouse.
The Opera House announces its biggest ever Creative Learning program for schools
Thursday 25 November 2021
The Sydney Opera House today revealed its largest ever Creative Learning program of enriching, curriculum-linked experiences for primary and secondary students. For the first time, the year-round program is expanding into the Opera House’s new Centre for Creativity – its first permanent, dedicated space for creativity. Students can engage with performances, workshops, tours and talks onsite, and access free digital learning experiences making the program accessible to schools, wherever they are.
Sydney Opera House to open new venue: Centre for Creativity
Tuesday 23 November 2021
The Sydney Opera House will open its new Centre for Creativity on January 4, 2022 – a purpose-built home for hands-on creative experiences inside the world-renowned building.
Liminal: A Music Film Series available to stream in November
Tuesday 9 November 2021
The Sydney Opera House today announced Liminal, a bold, new contemporary music film series featuring eight Australian artists creating unique live performances for the screen. Free, cinematic weekly performances will be presented over three weeks in November, premiering on Stream, the Opera House’s online streaming platform for world-class performing and digital arts, and across the Opera House’s Facebook and YouTube channels.
World-renowned mentalist Scott Silven will mystify crowds at the Opera House this June
Monday 8 November 2021
World-renowned mentalist Scott Silven will present the awe-inducing Wonders in the Opera House’s Playhouse from 14 – 26 June, 2022. A previous headline act for Sydney Festival and described by the New York Times as a “marvel”, Silven is a masterful storyteller who challenges audiences to reconsider the powers of the human mind.
Vance Joy to perform on the Opera House Forecourt
Thursday 4 November 2021
The Sydney Opera House today announced ARIA award-winning singer-songwriter Vance Joy will perform two unforgettable, celebratory performances on the spectacular Opera House Forecourt on Friday 18 November and Saturday 19 November 2022.
Bluey bounds back to the Opera House
Wednesday 3 November 2021
Following a sold-out season in May, the Sydney Opera House has announced Bluey’s Big Play will again fill the Joan Sutherland Theatre with joyous family fun, razor-sharp observations of daily family life, and laugh-out-loud humour from 14 – 19 December 2021.
Five ballet films by Matthew Bourne premiere on Stream
Tuesday 2 November 2021
Five ballet films by leading UK choreographer Sir Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures company will premiere on Stream, the Opera House’s streaming platform, throughout November.
Bring the family together at the Sydney Opera House this summer
Tuesday 26 October 2021
The Sydney Opera House today revealed a summer holiday line-up of treasured Australian classics: Alison Lester’s Magic Beach and Ted Prior’s beloved Grug; the world premiere of feisty feline fantasia Scaredy Cat; and the return of onsite tours for children and their families.
The Necks to play four nights in the Utzon Room in February 2022
Tuesday 19 October 2021
The Sydney Opera House is exhilarated to host the return of Australia’s critically acclaimed improvisational trio The Necks. The award-winning band The New York Times called “the greatest trio on earth” will make their long-awaited return to the Sydney Opera House in February, performing their singular mix of avant rock, jazz and ambient music in the spectacular Utzon Room over four nights.
SIX the Musical returns to the Sydney Opera House this summer
Tuesday 5 October 2021
The Sydney Opera House is thrilled to announce the return of electrifying musical phenomenon SIX the Musical by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, bringing much-needed feel-good live performance back to the stage in line with the easing of restrictions in NSW. Following its sold-out season in early 2020, the witty, pop-fuelled musical will make a triumphant return to the Opera House Studio from December 19, kicking off the long-awaited 2021/22 national tour after victorious openings in the West End and on Broadway. Tickets will go on sale this Friday 8 October.
Sydney Opera House and Dettol partner to help teach kids healthy habits
Wednesday 22 September 2021
The Sydney Opera House today announced Australia’s most trusted brand in germ protection, Dettol Australia as its newest Global Goals partner, supporting the world-famous performing arts centre’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Chip Rolley appointed Sydney Opera House Head of Talks & Ideas
Monday 20 September 2021
The Sydney Opera House today announced that Chip Rolley has been appointed to the role of Head of Talks & Ideas, joining the artistic leadership team of its internal programming arm, Sydney Opera House Presents. Following a global search, the seasoned editor and festival director will take up the position from late September. Rolley will oversee a year-round program of Talks & Ideas events, including flagship festivals Antidote and All About Women, which celebrates its tenth year in 2022.
Exclusive livestreamed in-conversation with bestselling author Liane Moriarty
Tuesday 17 August 2021
Internationally bestselling Australian author Liane Moriarty will appear in conversation with fellow writer, political commentator and television host Annabel Crabb for an Australian/New Zealand exclusive digital event livestreamed on Tuesday 14 September at 7pm AEST. Moriarty will reveal intimate insights into her personal writing process, sensational characters and riveting storylines that have been adapted for television starring the likes of Nicole Kidman, Reese Witherspoon, Melissa McCarthy and Meryl Streep.
Line-up for fifth annual Antidote festival announced
Monday 19 July 2021
The Sydney Opera House today announced the line-up for Antidote 2021 – its annual festival of ideas, action and change – which will be livestreamed from the Opera House stages on Sunday 5 September. Celebrating its fifth year, Antidote is a vital response to our turbulent times, galvanising the community by providing a platform for inspiring conversations, consensus-building and creative solutions.
Sydney Opera House releases inaugural season of Outlines
Wednesday 7 July 2021
The Sydney Opera House today released the inaugural Outlines season of digital works showcasing boundary-pushing artists and technologists, presented free and exclusively on Stream, the Opera House’s online streaming platform for world-class performing and digital arts.
Utzon Music returns for a triumphant 14th season in 2021
Wednesday 16 June 2021
The Sydney Opera House today announced Utzon Music will return for a triumphant 14th season in 2021. From Beethoven’s revolutionary sonatas to new music by First Nations composers and the next generation of cutting-edge chamber musicians, the 2021 program will feature some of the country’s most dazzling home-grown musicians up-close and personal.
Sydney Opera House launches new dining experience Taste of the House
Thursday 3 June 2021
The Sydney Opera House today launches its new dining experience Taste of the House, an all-inclusive long lunch that gives foodies an opportunity to feast on menu favourites from the Opera House’s leading restaurants and bars.
Yarning Country: First Nations country, community and culture
Tuesday 1 June 2021
The Sydney Opera House today announced an evening of storytelling and song by First Nations artists from around Australia exploring this year’s NAIDOC week theme, Heal Country!. Curated by Warlpiri woman and former co-host of NITV The Point Rachael Hocking, Yarning Country will be a healing night of country, community and culture in the Studio on Thursday 24 June in the lead-up to NAIDOC Week (4-11 July 2021).
Sydney Opera House collaborates with Ziggy Ramo on music video for 'Little Things'
Friday 28 May 2021
The Sydney Opera House has collaborated with pioneering hip hop artist Ziggy Ramo Burrmuruk Fatnowna on a music video featuring the artist on top of the Opera House’s sails to accompany his latest release, “Little Things” featuring Paul Kelly, as well as a behind-the-scenes documentary, ‘Making Little Things’. The music video and documentary are both available to watch now on Stream, the Opera House’s recently launched streaming platform that showcases world-class performing and digital arts.
Vivid LIVE 2021 full line-up revealed
Tuesday 25 May 2021
The Sydney Opera House today revealed the full line-up for its 12th annual centrepiece contemporary music event, Vivid LIVE 2021, taking place from 6 – 28 August as part of Vivid Sydney, the festival transforming the Sydney CBD each winter through a celebration of creativity and innovation.
Sydney Opera House appoints Beau James as Head of First Nations Programming
Friday 14 May 2021
Leading First Nations curator, producer and performer Beau James, from the Mununjali clan of the Yugambeh Nation from South East Queensland with links to Stradbroke Island, has been appointed as Sydney Opera House’s new Head of First Nations Programming. Beau will lead a national and international cultural agenda, advancing and championing First Nations peoples, cultures, places, knowledge and narratives.
Sampa The Great announced as first act for Vivid LIVE 2021
Tuesday 11 May 2021
The Sydney Opera House today announced that Zambian rapper and songwriter Sampa The Great will electrify audiences in the Joan Sutherland Theatre on Sunday 8 August for the return of Vivid LIVE, part of Vivid Sydney, the festival transforming the Sydney CBD each winter through a celebration of creativity and innovation.
Returning: Chapter One - Online exhibition of video works by Australian and Japanese contemporary artists
Monday 3 May 2021
The Sydney Opera House today launched Returning, a serial digital exhibition that poetically explores the impacts of COVID-19. Available free on the Opera House’s newly-launched streaming platform, Stream, artists from Australia and Japan were commissioned to create moving image works that capture the turbulent emotions of the past year.
Based on the John Waters classic, CRY-BABY The Musical is coming to the Opera House
Tuesday 27 April 2021
Based on the 1990 cult-classic John Waters (Hairspray) film, CRY-BABY The Musical will be presented in the Opera House’s Drama Theatre from 22 July – 15 August, 2021. Highly subversive and proudly irreverent, CRY-BABY The Musical, which won four 2018 Sydney Theatre Awards during its season at the Hayes Theatre Co, is a tongue-in-cheek homage to the teen rebel genre.
Sydney Opera House and Honeywell partner to help achieve the United Nations Global Goals
Monday 26 April 2021
The Sydney Opera House today announced Honeywell as its first Global Goals partner, supporting the world-famous performing arts centre’s commitment to sustainability, diversity and inclusion.
Bill Birtles, Yun Jiang and Richard Fidler on 'The China Puzzle'
Monday 26 April 2021
The Sydney Opera House today announced that former ABC China correspondent Bill Birtles will appear alongside China policy analyst Yun Jiang on Sunday 23 May in the Playhouse. Together, they will unpack the complex relationship between Australia and China in an essential discussion about one of the biggest geopolitical issues of our time moderated by author and host of ABC Conversations, Richard Fidler.
Sydney Opera House presents a world of new wonders for upcoming kids shows
Thursday 8 April 2021
A vivid adaptation of classic Australian story Grug leads the Sydney Opera House’s full slate of kids and families performances for 2021. Breathing new life into timeless stories, the program includes: INFUSION, No Movement, No Sound, celebrating ancient West African, Indian and Australian rhythms with a global collective of contemporary and traditional dancers and musicians; Zooom, merging heart-warming storytelling with cutting-edge technology; and the jaw-dropping music showdown Loop the Loop.
Sydney Opera House unveils latest UnWrapped line-up platforming independent voices and contemporary Australian work
Wednesday 7 April 2021
The Sydney Opera House today unveiled the latest instalment of live music, First Nations cabaret, contemporary dance and digital performance works-in-development as part of its biannual UnWrapped season of diverse, rarely seen and critically acclaimed work.
Sydney Opera House launches online streaming platform
Tuesday 6 April 2021
The Sydney Opera House today launched a new online streaming platform to showcase world-class performing and digital arts. Stream follows the success of the award-winning 2020 digital season From Our House to Yours – created while the Opera House was temporarily closed to the public due to COVID-19 – and will showcase highlights from the Opera House’s incredible multi-genre archive, livestreams of new performances, presentations by resident and international performing arts companies, and original digital content created exclusively for the platform.
Ed Kuepper makes his Opera House headline debut with drummer Jim White
Monday 29 March 2021
The Sydney Opera House today announced that Australian post-punk, singer-songwriter and guitarist Ed Kuepper and legendary drummer Jim White will perform 45 years’ worth of Kuepper‘s music, with a twist, across two shows in the Studio on Sunday 13 June. Together, the game-changers will reinterpret versions of Kuepper’s back-catalogue in a blistering and rare performance of post-punk mayhem.
Badu Gili: Wonder Women
Tuesday 16 March 2021
The Sydney Opera House today announced the return of its free, nightly First Nations sails lighting from April 23, with a vibrant new projection that celebrates the work and stories of six female First Nations artists.
Timeless French tale The Little Prince comes to life on the Opera House stage
Monday 15 March 2021
A breathtaking adaptation of the classic French novella The Little Prince (Le Petit Prince) will be presented in the Opera House’s Joan Sutherland Theatre from 26 May – 6 June in an Australian exclusive premiere. The Little Prince is a stunning spectacular of circus, dance, aerial acrobatics and ground-breaking video mapping technology. It comes to the Opera House after sell-out seasons at Folies Bergère Paris in 2019 and Dubai Opera last year.
Sydney Opera House presents four free outdoor concerts on the Forecourt this April
Friday 12 March 2021
The Sydney Opera House announced that it will present four free outdoor concerts on the Forecourt from Friday 9 April - Sunday 11 April, enabled by a NSW Government initiative to increase access to Sydney's cultural offering in the city.
Get Active at the Sydney Opera House
Wednesday 3 March 2021
The Sydney Opera House will host a range of fitness classes with a breathtaking view this March and April, offering Sydneysiders and visitors a chance to experience their Opera House in a new way and rediscover the city.
Sydney Opera House doubles the creative fun for kids this April
Tuesday 2 March 2021
The Sydney Opera House will inspire kids and families with two free artist-led Creative Play experiences alongside school holiday shows this April. Held in the Western Foyer and Utzon Room, the expanded programming is enabled by the NSW Government initiative’s Summer in the City initiative. The immersive experiences include Awakening Evenfall, with children repurposing old Opera House uniforms to weave personal stories, and Utzon’s Universe, a kid-friendly exploration of the design principles of Opera House architect Jørn Utzon.
Every Body Dance Now: Free outdoor dance classes at the Sydney Opera House this March
Monday 15 February 2021
The Sydney Opera House today announced Every Body Dance Now, a free series of outdoor dance classes presented on the spectacular Opera House Forecourt. Enabled by a NSW Government initiative, Culture Up Late, to increase access to Sydney’s cultural offering in the city, several free classes will be held this March, allowing attendees to share in the joy of dance against one of the world’s most iconic backdrops.
American Psycho - The Musical will deliver the thrills and chills this winter
Tuesday 9 February 2021
Sexy, dark and disturbing, American Psycho - The Musical will be presented in the Sydney Opera House’s Playhouse from 3 - 27 June, 2021. Based on Bret Easton Ellis’ 1991 famed novel American Psycho and the 2000 film of the same name, American Psycho – The Musical is a chilling yet wickedly comedic insight into a society driven by capitalism, self-image and wealth. The production returns after a successful season at the Hayes Theatre Co. in 2019 that earned the musical nine Sydney Theatre Awards.
Laugh, learn and be inspired with the Opera House’s April school holidays program
Tuesday 2 February 2021
The world premiere of the rampaging new Australian musical comedy Charlie and the War Against the Grannies leads a fun-packed family line-up at the Sydney Opera House this April and May. Together with new dinosaur adventure Prehistoric World by internationally-renowned puppeteers Erth, ARIA award-winners Teeny Tiny Stevies, a collaborative stage adaptation of beloved children’s story Wilfrid Gordon McDonald Partridge with the Australian Chamber Orchestra, and the return of the popular Kids Music Café, this school holidays program offers family fun for all generations.
All About Women 2021 line-up announcement
Wednesday 20 January 2021
The Sydney Opera House today announced a program of talks, panels, film screenings, contemporary art, Q&As and workshops to be presented at its ninth annual All About Women festival, held on Sunday 7 March ahead of International Women’s Day.
Sydney Opera House announces $21 summer tickets
Wednesday 13 January 2021
The Sydney Opera House today announced $21 summer tickets for its line-up of summer events, performances and experiences, enabled by a NSW Government initiative to increase access to Sydney’s cultural offering over the summer months. The offer commences today and runs through to the end of March, with tickets released on the Opera House website at midday each day for selected shows the following day.
Beloved Aussie kids favourite Bluey makes Sydney Opera House debut
Monday 14 December 2020
“Wackadoo!” – the Sydney Opera House has announced that Bluey’s Big Play The Stage Show will bounce onto the Joan Sutherland Theatre stage for the first time from 19 – 23 May 2021.
Sunnyboys - Alone With You (for one night only) in the Joan Sutherland Theatre
Thursday 26 November 2020
Few Australian bands inspire as much love as Sydney post-punk survivors Sunnyboys. Now the original lineup of frontman Jeremy Oxley, bassist Peter Oxley, guitarist Richard Burgman, and drummer Bil Bilson will return to the Sydney Opera House on Sunday 13 December.
Applications open for Opera House Uncovered program
Wednesday 25 November 2020
The Sydney Opera House is searching for three new creatives to take part in the second year of its successful Uncovered program, which provides an opportunity for local makers, designers and artists to have their Australian-inspired products sold in one of the world’s most iconic retail environments.
Australians invited to share their favourite Sydney Opera House memories
Friday 13 November 2020
To mark its reopening, the Opera House is inviting people to share their favourite moments at the iconic venue, with a selection to be projected on to the sails in early 2021, as part of a new campaign ‘Where Memories Are Made’, announced today.
Free digital creative learning connects regional and remote students to Sydney Opera House
Wednesday 11 November 2020
The Sydney Opera House has unveiled its 2021 Digital Creative Learning program featuring exclusive talks with award-winning artists and authors Andy Griffiths and Maxine Beneba Clarke as well as a rich program of workshops and virtual tours to take place in the first half of next year.
Sydney Opera House launches new range of tour experiences
Wednesday 11 November 2020
Local and international audiences will be able to experience Sydney Opera House like never before with the launch of a new range of tour experiences, announced today.
Ebony Bott announced as new Head of Contemporary Performance
Tuesday 10 November 2020
Leading arts curator and producer Ebony Bott has been appointed as Sydney Opera House's new Head of Contemporary Performance, overseeing the development of innovative and entertaining new productions by today’s great artists from Australia and the world.
Cosmo's Midnight announce two all-ages shows for their Opera House debut
Friday 6 November 2020
Sydney Opera House will welcome the shimmering sound of summer with two all-ages performances by Sydney electropop duo Cosmo’s Midnight. The genre-pushing twin producers will celebrate their acclaimed new album Yesteryear on 10 December with their only 2020 Sydney show for the band’s Opera House debut.
A summer of escape, entertainment and connection at the House
Tuesday 3 November 2020
Legendary rock musical RENT – with its galvanising story of love and connection – kicks off a vibrant Sydney Opera House summer program full of magic, illusion, music theatre and circus.
An unmissable summer of fun for the young and young at heart
Tuesday 27 October 2020
Much-loved Australian children’s singer and entertainer Justine Clarke leads a summer of fun with sing-along favourites, classic stories and best-selling, award-winning productions for the young, and young at heart, at the Sydney Opera House.
Sydney Opera House announces new season of UnWrapped celebrating independent voices and contemporary Australian work
Monday 26 October 2020
The Sydney Opera House has announced the latest offering of live music and physical theatre as part of its UnWrapped season of diverse, rarely seen and critically acclaimed work curated by Sydney Opera House Director of Programming, Fiona Winning.
Dance Rites: a celebration of First Nations culture - online
Thursday 22 October 2020
The Sydney Opera House will present its sixth annual Dance Rites festival online next month, bringing together 28 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander dance groups in a celebratory digital event with more than 350 performers spanning generations, nations and clan groups.
Sydney Opera House lifts the curtain on new program of live events
Wednesday 14 October 2020
The Sydney Opera House today announced an exciting next step in welcoming audiences and visitors back to the site with a program of unmissable live events set to start in two weeks.
Sydney Opera House launches New Work Now
Tuesday 29 September 2020
The Sydney Opera House has today launched New Work Now, an initiative created in response to the COVID-19 pandemic to provide meaningful support for local Australian artists and arts workers through commissioning, developing and presenting new works.
New podcast series unravels the hidden stories of the Opera House tapestry collection, hosted by award-winning broadcaster Tim Ross
Wednesday 23 September 2020
The Sydney Opera House has launched a new podcast series House Stories: The Tapestries that examines the stories and significance of four magnificent tapestries designed specifically for the Opera House.
In the Mood, A Love Letter to Wong Kar-Wai and Hong Kong: A newly-commissioned world premiere performance from the Sydney Opera House's digital stage
Tuesday 15 September 2020
The Sydney Opera House has commissioned a new work by Sydney artists Rainbow Chan, Eugene Choi and Marcus Whale to be presented as part of its free weekly digital program From Our House to Yours.
Sydney Opera House reopens harbourside restaurants
Wednesday 9 September 2020
The Sydney Opera House announced that its popular harbourside dining venues Opera Bar and Opera Kitchen will be open for business from Thursday 10 September.
Ziggy Ramo to live-stream his full-length album in an exclusively commissioned performance for the Opera House's digital season
Monday 17 August 2020
In an exclusively commissioned performance featuring a 10-piece band and specially-made visuals, Ziggy Ramo Burrmuruk Fatnowna will present his debut album Black Thoughts. The performance will be presented as part of the Sydney Opera House's From Our House to Yours digital season as a hip-hop reckoning through love, compassion, dispossession and systemic racism envisioned for listeners from all walks of life.
The Sydney Opera House ‘talks’ in a brand new podcast for kids
Wednesday 15 July 2020
The Sydney Opera House has today released a brand new season of Arty Farty, a podcast made especially for kids. House Call is the third season of Arty Farty and includes 15 episodes jam-packed full of interesting stories from the people who make magic happen behind-the-scenes at the Sydney Opera House.
An evening of music theatre in support of the Actor's Benevolent Fund
Thursday 2 July 2020
The Sydney Opera House will host a vibrant showcase of live performance, interviews and musical footage to fundraise for the Actors Benevolent Fund. Let’s Go On With The Show will be hosted by Simon Burke AO and delivered in partnership with Live Performance Australia, the Helpmann Awards, the Media Entertainment & Arts Alliance and Sydney Opera House Presents.
Dance Rites 2020 registrations are now open
Friday 26 June 2020
Registrations for the sixth annual Dance Rites – Sydney Opera House’s esteemed national First Nations dance competition – are now open. The hallmark First Nations event helps to revitalise Indigenous leadership, safeguard vanishing cultural practices, and showcase the richness and diversity of First Nations culture.
The Wiggles world premiere performance on the Opera House digital stage
Friday 5 June 2020
Global superstars The Wiggles will make their Sydney Opera House digital stage debut on Sunday 14 June 2020 in an exclusive performance available to audiences around the world as part of the Opera House’s weekly digital program From Our House to Yours.
Sydney Opera House releases its first online guided tour
Wednesday 3 June 2020
The Sydney Opera House is bringing its popular backstage tour to homes around the world with today’s release of its first ever online guided tour, available to experience for free here.
Sydney Opera House presents new program of live performances streamed online from the Joan Sutherland Theatre stage
Tuesday 5 May 2020
From this week, the Sydney Opera House will introduce new and live-streamed performances to its successful digital program From Our House to Yours, streamed online from the Joan Sutherland Theatre stage to audiences around the world.
From Our House to Yours - Sydney Opera House announces new digital program
Tuesday 31 March 2020
The Sydney Opera House today announced a new digital initiative – From Our House to Yours – to connect with, inspire, educate and entertain local and global communities while the venue’s doors are temporarily closed to the public. The program will include full-length performances and talks, never-before-seen footage, podcasts, long-form articles and behind-the-scenes content.
Sydney Opera House cancels public performances
Tuesday 17 March 2020
The Sydney Opera House has announced the cancellation of all public performances, commencing today until 29 March inclusive, at which point the Opera House will reevaluate based on the latest health advice and developments in the evolving COVID-19 situation.
Australian premiere of West End hit Everybody’s Talking About Jamie
Monday 9 March 2020
The Australian premiere of the critically-acclaimed West End hit musical Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, starring Simon Burke AO, Helen Dallimore and introducing James Majoos, will be presented at the Sydney Opera House for a strictly limited season from 18 July – 30 August 2020, as the first season of the national tour.
Tamara Harrison appointed as Sydney Opera House Head of Children, Families and Creative Learning
Friday 28 February 2020
The Sydney Opera House today announced that Tamara Harrison has been appointed to the role of Head of Children, Families and Creative Learning, joining the artistic leadership team of the Opera House's internal programming arm, Sydney Opera House Presents. In this role, Harrison will oversee a year-round program that aims to inspire young people, families, students and educators through performing arts experiences, workshops, talks and creative play.
Jill Scott announced as first Vivid LIVE act for 2020
Tuesday 18 February 2020
The Sydney Opera House revealed that Grammy award-winning US neo-soul powerhouse Jill Scott will perform her influential debut album Who Is Jill Scott? Words And Sounds Vol. 1, celebrating its 20th anniversary in an Australian exclusive at Vivid LIVE as part of Vivid Sydney, the largest festival of light, music and ideas in the Southern Hemisphere.
Finnish education expert Pasi Sahlberg hosts conversation series at the Opera House
Tuesday 11 February 2020
Finnish writer, practitioner and researcher of education, Pasi Sahlberg, will host a series of three conversations in April, June and October in the Sydney Opera House Utzon Room with national and international education thought-leaders Eddie Woo and Amie Albrecht, Maggie MacDonnell and Dr. Michael Rich. The conversation series invites parents, grandparents, caregivers, educators and students to discuss the urgency for education reform in Australia in passionate, participatory conversation.
American Psycho - The Musical to premiere at the Sydney Opera House
Tuesday 4 February 2020
The Sydney Opera House today announced that American Psycho - The Musical will be presented in the Sydney Opera House Playhouse from 4 – 21 June, 2020. Sexy, dark and disturbing, the production is returning after a successful season at the Hayes Theatre Co. in 2019 that earned the musical nine 2020 Sydney Theatre Awards.
Sydney Opera House begins work on historic Concert Hall upgrade
Wednesday 29 January 2020
This week, Grammy Award-winning R&B singer-songwriter and visual artist Solange will be the final artist to perform in the Sydney Opera House Concert Hall before work begins on a major upgrade to renew the world-famous venue for the next 50 years.
New speakers and events added to All About Women 2020 line-up
Tuesday 28 January 2020
The Sydney Opera House announced new speakers and events for the eighth annual All About Women festival, taking place on Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 March 2020 to coincide with International Women’s Day.
Free Talks & Ideas event examining the bushfire catastrophe: what now?
Friday 24 January 2020
The Sydney Opera House today announced a free Talks & Ideas event in the Drama Theatre on Sunday 16 February to spearhead urgent discussion and examine practical and policy-led responses to Australia’s unprecedented ongoing bushfire season and its devastating impact on communities, land and wildlife.
Penn & Teller reschedule tour
Monday 20 January 2020
The Sydney Opera House today announced that Penn & Teller will bring their record-breaking Las Vegas live show to Sydney for eight performances at the Capitol Theatre from 14 – 21 April 2020.
Opera House announces new summer pop-up bar
Thursday 16 January 2020
Tudor-inspired glamour and regal decadence has descended on the Sydney Opera House with a new summer pop-up SIX Bar poured by Mumm at Portside Sydney, until 5 March.