Talks & Ideas
Upcoming talks, ideas and conversations
First Stories of the House
Conversation meets classical performance as we celebrate the life and contribution of Wulli Wulli tenor Harold Blair AM, the first Australian Aboriginal opera singer and performer at the House in 1973. The panel discussion will bring into focus his contribution to Australian culture, followed by a special Opera performance by Soprano and proud Koa, Kuku Yalanji, Wakka Wakka woman, Nina Korbe.
Megan Cope – In Conversation
Join artist Megan Cope, creator of the monumental public artwork, Whispers, and guest Matt Poll, as they discuss ecology, collectivity, First Nations culture and the role of artists.
The Opera House Would Not Be Built Today
Would we build the Sydney Opera House today? As an icon that sparks conversations and imagination, this event is an opportunity to reflect on whether we would have the same impetus to create such a building in the current culture. Join us for this informative, fun (possibly even raucous) old-school debate.
Story Week 2023 - Australian Poetry Slam
This is your call to listen, watch and cheer. Australian Poetry Slam is here. The door is open. The mic is on. Push into the crowd and find your spot.
UNSW Sydney UTZON Lecture
Join Jan and Lin Utzon in conversation – as we journey through the legacy of their father, Jørn Utzon, the visionary architect of the Sydney Opera House. In a brief UNSW Sydney UTZON Lecture, Jan will examine the architectural brilliance of the building that has inspired a nation.
To What End
Join William Kentridge, the creator of the Sydney Opera House presentation of Sibyl, as he takes us on a fascinating exploration of his creative process.
Jamie Oliver
Chef and child health campaigner Jamie Oliver is back in Sydney for an Australian exclusive conversation at the Sydney Opera House. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear Jamie’s story – from the early Naked Chef days to how he continues to inspire millions to cook fresh and delicious food from scratch, and his pledge to keep fighting for kids’ health.
An Evening with Fran Lebowitz
In a cultural landscape teeming with self-proclaimed experts and incessant chatter, Fran Lebowitz reigns supreme with scathing and insightful social commentary. A force to be reckoned with, she possesses an unparalleled ability to dissect life with biting precision.
Dr. Andrew Huberman
Stanford neuroscientist and host of one of the most listened to podcasts in the world, Dr. Andrew Huberman, is bringing his Brain Body Contract tour to the Sydney Opera House.
An Evening with Elizabeth Day
How To Fail fans – this is the moment you have been waiting for. Your favourite podcaster, journalist, and bestselling author, Elizabeth Day, takes the stage in Australia for the very first time.
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On The Level with Brian Cox
Candid, in-depth, and always revealing, On The Level is a monthly interview series that catches up with artists during their visit to the Sydney Opera House, discussing their careers, inspirations, and preparations for their performance.
Mother tongues and minor feelings
Recipient of the Antidote and Sweatshop Mentorship for Diverse Emerging Writers Joyce Chew on family, language and the “glittering visage of the Australian ‘fair go’”.
Ideas at the House
Talks and conversations from the Sydney Opera House featuring the world’s greatest minds and culture creators.