Sydney spectacular

Our last leg was flying from Auckland to Sydney. The airport train got us into downtown after sunset so our first glimpse of the famous Harbour bridge and Opera house are all lit up in lights for the Matildas game. What a site to see after stepping off the train.

We walked into the historical neighborhood known as The Rocks to find our hotel. We’re basically just up the hill from where Fox broadcasts before each game with the Opera House in the background just under the bridge. We watched the game hopeful for Australia but England played so well and ended up with a solid win. Australia will play in the 3rd place game on Saturday against Sweden and the final will be England v Spain. Kevin and I agreed we’re pulling for England.

We slept in extra late and decided save our energy for the afternoon and evening. What would we possibly need the energy for?! While we were in Auckland we looked up tours and events happening at the Opera House. They had several things with multiple performing spaces inside. Their production of Miss Saigon was opening Thursday in the Joan Sutherland theatre (the second largest space inside with a capacity of 1507) and there were still some tickets available. How often would we get this chance so we splurged on a great pair for the evening show!

The Sydney Opera house is so iconic. Walking up to it, the archways soar into the air catching the wind to sail into the Pacific. Once inside you can see the architectural detail of concrete unfurling into the archway lobby. They had a side door open to enjoy the evening air. We stepped outside, turned around to see that the front Archways were lit up with projections celebrating the Indigenous First Nations people.

Once the house opened, we headed for our seats and to enjoy the show. It was a great cast, filled with local talent. And yes, they had a real helicopter on a hydraulic lift that was super effective. An enthusiastic packed house gave them two standing ovations at the end. Overall an amazing experience. For a theater nerd like me, one that I’ll never forget.