Opening the Sydney Opera House in 1973
25 September, 2023
50 years ago the Sydney Symphony gave the Opening Gala Concert of the Sydney Opera House. Take a trip back in time browse through the memorabilia from our archives.
As you browse, you can listen to the recording from this very concert.
Flick through the program book from our first-ever concert at the Sydney Opera House. Conductor Charles Mackerras led the Orchestra in an all-Wagner program that also featured legendary Swedish soprano Birgit Nilsson on Saturday 29 September 1973.
The official opening of the Sydney Opera House happened on Saturday 20 October 1973 and was attended by Queen Elizabeth II. Read through the program book from this performance.
Browse through these snapshots from the first few weeks of concerts at the Sydney Opera House. The photos feature scenes on stage of the Concert Hall in our first performance and moments with Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II at the formal opening later that year.
Soprano Birgit Nillson takes centre stage during the Opening Gala Concert, 29 September 1973.
Conductor Charles Mackerras and the Sydney Symphony stand for applause at the Opening Gala Concert.
Charles Mackerras shakes the hand of pianist Roger Woodward after a concert in the Sydney Opera House’s opening season.
Queen Elizabeth II meets various dignitaries, including Sydney Symphony Chief Conductor Willem van Otterloo, at the official opening of the Sydney Opera House on 20 October 1973.
Queen Elizabeth II and Sydney Symphony Chief Conductor Willem van Otterloo at the official opening of the Sydney Opera House on 20 October 1973.
