As the Sydney Opera House celebrates its 50th birthday, its status as Australia’s premiere cultural institution remains unrivalled. Its hallowed halls have survived superstitions, lockdowns and celebrity showdowns, and played host to sopranos, sleepovers and symphonies; meanwhile, crowds have gathered in the shadows of its imposing white sails for an audience with both British and Hollywood royalty.

With the help of tour guides, security and stage managers, we take a look at five decades of moments that made Danish architect Jørn Utzon’s grand design pop with life.