If you have never heard of the Sydney Opera House, then you have probably at least seen photos of this truly outstanding creation!
The story of the creation of this theater itself is interesting, which began in the distant 1955, when the state government gave permission for construction on the condition that no state funds would be needed. An international competition for the opera project was announced, in which 223 applicants took part.
According to one hypothesis, the chairman of the competition jury - American architect Eero Saarinen - chose the winner while in a state of alcohol intoxication. He simply blindly pulled out the now-famous sail project and announced that the opera would have such a look. The project's author, Jørn Utzon, did not expect to win the competition, because he had submitted a series of barely developed drawings that gave only a general idea of the structure.
One of the most ardent supporters of the project - Australian Prime Minister Cahill - did not live to see the opening of the opera and died six months after laying the memorial plaque in the foundation. Moreover, Cahill, trying to help in the construction of the opera, organized a national lottery. The lottery jackpot was won by a family, and shortly after that their child was kidnapped for ransom, and later the boy was found dead.
The chief architect of the project – Jørn Utzon, unable to withstand the harassment, left Australia and never returned.
Initially, it was expected that construction would take 4 years and cost $7 million. In the end, the opera was built over 14 years and its cost amounted to $102 million.
Despite all the scandals, rumors, and shocking facts, today the Sydney Opera House is the country's calling card. The theater's area is 2.2 hectares. The theater's roof is covered with tiles - perfectly smooth and changing color depending on the lighting. Light shows are often held here. The interior finish is made of plywood, wood, and pink granite. Inside there are many rooms, the largest of which are the concert hall with a capacity of 2,679 seats and the opera theater for 1,507 people. To step onto the stage of the Sydney Opera House in our time is a great honor!
