The lighting of the Opera House sails has been an integral part of the Vivid Sydney festival since its inception in 2009.

A crowd of people gather for the opening of the Sydney Opera House.

View more photographs from the opening in the Sydney Opera House Opening latest post.

In 1972 the Sydney Opera House was in the final stages of construction. With the external structure all but complete, this film focuses on the internal fit-out.

Accompanied by a chamber orchestra the Sydney Opera House is shown from many angles both inside and out.

Composer Larry Sitsky comments that the opera theatre has many 'liabilities'. Opera director Sam Wanamaker suggests that the space is manageable. 

The charismatic architect of the Sydney Opera House, Jørn Utzon, is initially enthusiastic about undertaking the construction of Australia’s most famous building.

The lighting of the Opera House sails has been an integral part of the Vivid Sydney festival since its inception in 2009.

The exterior walls of the Sydney Opera House were inspired by the sails of the pleasure craft on the nearby harbour.

The Sydney Opera House’s Opera Theatre has backstage facilities to accommodate a technically complex production.

The sails of the Opera House were festooned with ribbons for the official opening.