Performances at the Sydney Opera House have enthralled spectators for almost half a century but a new space aims to get audiences more creatively involved.
The Centre for Creativity is a former office turned versatile hub.
Located on the building's north-west corner, the centre will host participatory performances, installations and workshops year round on site and online.
It's the first new dedicated programming venue to open under the sails since The Studio in 1999.
"It's the first time that we're going to have a dedicated space for creativity by everyone," Opera House CEO Louise Herron said.
"Creativity is right at the core of how we are all managing to get through the rapidly changing circumstances that we are facing.
Ms Herron said intentions for the space were for artists to delve into Indigenous history and science and technology, and attract new audiences.
The centre is one of the final projects of the Opera House's 10-year renewal plan.
"Finishing the Decade of Renewal is certainly not finishing the ongoing works on the Opera House – that's a generation-to-generation requirement," Ms Herron said.
"This is a place where young people in particular will be able to explore their creativity and become the creative citizens of the future."
Blinds can open up to views over the harbour, there's storage space behind the walls which can be reversed to wood or acoustic panels, and a breakout room is designed for small group work.
The space has the capacity to seat up to 100 people.
Composer James Brown has been working in the centre to create and test his performance, What The Ocean Said.
"It's a great space because it's quite adaptable to lots of different kinds of situations," Brown said.
Brown has been using storytelling, music and special effects, including wind and visual projections, to guide children and their guardians through meditation.
"Trying to introduce the idea of meditation to young kids without it feeling too much like it's a chore or a learning experience.
"It's a creative experience and a narrative driven experience."
Not all artists will use the space for creative development, but Brown said it's been an invaluable component.
"There's a bit of lack of spaces in Sydney particularly for creating new work for artists," Brown said.
"So it's great to have a new space."
The Centre for Creativity will open in early January.
