For many Sydneysiders, the grand stature of the Sydney Opera House is an inherent part of their national identity. For young Australians it is hard to imagine a time before its unmistakeable figure graced the harbour. The luminous sails have borne witness to a rapidly evolving nation, and remained steadfast in their capacity to house and inspire new Australian art. Yet for all the stories this building has told, the one which remains the greatest is that of its own creation.

Work of Art is an in-development full length, sung-through musical that is written and composed by NIDA graduate Jesse Layt. This new Australian musical chronicles the creation of the world-famous Sydney Opera House, following the paths of architects Jørn Utzon and Peter Hall through fourteen years of construction as they fight to retain their creative voices. Propelled by an entirely original score, Work of Art questions the value that is placed on Australia’s art and artists in a world where political ambition and economic austerity seem destined to take precedence over artistic expression.

The First Look will comprise of a semi-staged presentation of Act 1 of 'Work of Art'