Since the first notes rang out in the Concert Hall over four decades ago, performers and arts lovers have been drawn to the Sydney Opera House.
The iconic sails building is about to get a 202-million-dollar makeover.
New South Wales Deputy Premier and Minister for the Arts, Troy Grant, says the traditional features will be preserved but improvements will be made to open more of the venue to the public.
"The heritage of this building will not be lost. It will only be enhanced by the opportunity for people to get further into the Opera House, understand the inner workings, and to give it a future that it deserves for everyone that visits here."
The upgrade will see a new artwork for the public to enjoy underneath the front steps, a new function centre with views of the harbour and a creative learning centre dedicated to children.
Sydney Opera House chief executive Louise Herron says the most significant changes will happen in the Concert Hall, where a new ceiling will be installed to improve the acoustics, and the backstage space will be expanded.
"We need to make sure it meets these contemporary expectations of all these artists and audiences and that it can switch between moods and modes as seamlessly and efficiently as possible, and we need to do all of that with the greatest of respect and sensitivity for the hall's heritage values."
Sydney Symphony Orchestra Chief Conductor David Robertson says the upgrades will allow a better experience of the music.
"With these changes to the concert hall you and the audience will get to hear the music as it should be heard, with the world's best acoustics, the best, technically most advanced, aspects in presenting it."
More than 8.2 million people visit the Opera House every year.
A key part of the Renewal Project is making it more accessible for everyone.
New elevators will be built along with 26 wheelchair positions in the concert hall.
Performer Emily Dash has cerebral palsy.
There are parts of the Opera House she's excited to finally access.
"I'm really excited because for example the Northern Foyer, the view from the Northern Foyer, I've never been able to see that kind of iconic view, so that's really quite exciting."
Architect Jorn Utzon's design wasn't popular with everyone in the 1970s.
But his son, Jan, says the venue's success continues to defy expectations and his father would be pleased with the latest developments.
"Over the years, of course, it would have changed anyway had he completed the Opera House in his own mind. He'd be very proud, and very happy that the building is so loved by Australians."
Renovations will begin from next year and will take over four years to complete.
