If you've spent any time around Sydney Harbour recently, you may have noticed the addition of an 18-metre tall head looming around the Opera House – if not, better go to Specsavers.
This 15-tonne head of past Egyptian Queen Nefertiti is part of the latest production of 'Aida' by Opera Australia's Handa Opera. The team at Staging Rentals built the opera's set piece for the production over a three month period in their Alexandria warehouse and is made of a combination of polystyrene, plywood and aluminium.
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David Comer, Managing Director of Staging Rentals, says that this is by far the most innovative and largest custom creation he and the team have done in their 25-year history. “Aptly named a visually gorgeous spectacle, this centrepiece required a whole team effort; from our CAD designers through to our carpenters, welders, sculptors, painters, scenic artists and project managers. This project was nothing like we’ve ever done before and I couldn’t be prouder of the result.
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“We’ve overcome a number of logistical challenges to deliver this fascinating feature that now looms large over the harbour. At its full height, it stood taller than our warehouse roof, so our team had to develop a unique build sequence specifically for this project. Made up of approximately 80 individual sections, the installation of the prop on-site was the first time we’d seen the finished product in all its glory."
The head sits at Fleet Steps, Mrs Macquaries Point, on a ten metre revolve and is brought to life in 'Aida' which tells the story of a secret Ethiopian princess torn between her love for an Egyptian hero and her country. 'Aida' is the biggest opera ever performed by Handa Opera on the opera stage.
'Aida' shows at the Sydney Opera House until 26 April. 
