We encountered the Operahouse first from a pedestrian bridge over the busy roads. This provided a dramatic revealing of the scale and ingenuity of the building. Externally, the forward facing, public parts of the building resemble a landscape transformed. Large planes of public space twisted and lifted to form usable space.
The most satisfying part of the trip was probably at this moment, when it took a short while to encourage the pupils down from the bridge so we could go and get inside the building; they were instantly excited and energised, snapping photos chatting and laughing.
Inside, our guide explained the vision of a building you could stand on as "to stand on something gives the sense of ownership ..." The project was state funded and as the state represents the people then it should be a peoples' building. The foyer is large & bright and this is emphasised by the low entrance threshold; it almost feels like you're sneaking in.
The auditorium is entirely clad in Oak both internally and externally; the 'wooden heart'. As we crossed the threshold into the timber realm the reaction amongst pupils and adults alike was moving with everyone touching and feeling the wooden walls.
Our visit to the opera house was fully rounded as our guide took us through to the backstage areas, seeing props and stage panels, great backdrops and the installation of the temporary ballet floor. We would then watch the last performance of Romeo & Juliette for the complete building experience.
You can find out more about the Snohetta designed Operahouse here
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