Sydney Opera House
Joan Sutherland Theatre
Australia
Sydney
©Sydney Opera House Trust_used under licence140+
Number of Machinery
5
Number of Venues
2017 & 1972
Year of Completion
7
Duration of Project (in Months)
Facts and Figures
Over 100 hoists were installed in the upper machinery to move the scenery almost silently and create an acoustically isolated environment. Two backstage platforms connect the stage dock with the stage 10 metres above. These two platforms are the new centrepiece of the JST and facilitate the transport of materials and scenery.
Type of venue
©Evolving PictureSydney would be unthinkable without its iconic Opera House.
Since its construction in 1973, this architectural masterpiece has shaped the city's skyline and is inextricably linked to its identity. Designed by the renowned Danish architect Jorn Utzon, it is a symbol of creativity and innovation.
But beyond the external splendor, an impressive technical achievement is hidden behind the scenes. In 1972, Waagner-Biro Stage Systems equipped the opera house with a revolving stage and stage platforms. More than 40 years later, the Joan Sutherland Theater (JST) needed modernization. In a remarkably short period of just seven months, Waagner-Biro Stage Systems set new standards in stage technology.
Over 100 hoists were installed in the upper machinery to move the scenery almost silently and create an acoustically isolated environment. Two backstage platforms connect the stage dock with the stage 10 meters above. These two platforms are the new centrepiece of the JST and facilitate the transport of materials, backdrops, etc.
The reopening of the opera house on New Year's Eve 2017 marked the start of a new year and a successful modernization of the stage technology that will secure the opera house's future.
