Oprah-fication

The Sydney Opera House is being 'Oprah-fied' in preparation for the Great One who will be recording two of her television programs in the forecourt here next Tuesday. A glorious day yesterday and more of the same forecast until Monday but alas the forecast for Tuesday includes 'showers'. However that may not prove a problem. As one sycophantic 'news' reporter breathlessly noted about the Presence in Melbourne, poor weather magically cleared when she appeared there just as has happened wherever she has stayed on her Australian sojourn and significantly (the reporter noted) just as happened for the Pope on his visit. So there.

That's it; no more cynicism in this post.

(Click photos to enlarge)

Much of the forecourt and all of the front stairs have been fenced off. A stage is being erected on the left and you might just make out one of the camera/lighting towers mid-photo.

A bit closer now. The edge of the stage to the right with a large television screen being raised into position. You can see several of the camera/lighting towers and the beginnings of temporary 'stadium seating' to augment the forecourt steps which will make for some uncomfortable viewing for those allocated seating there.

Another view of the stage from the front.

Workers climbing all over the place.

Thankfully the northern promenade on the harbourside of the Opera House remains available to the public and was it's usual gorgeous sight in yesterday's glorious weather.

The ever present runners remained undeterred by the construction impediments.

Sydney's water taxis continued a roaring trade at the Man O War Steps wharf on the eastern edge of the Opera House. The Royal Botanic Gardens are in the background and a temporary marquee is visible in the distance, perhaps to cater for Ms Winfrey's visit to the Gardens yesterday or, more likely, in preparation for the forthcoming annual Sydney Festival.