Image source: www.rfchina.com
R&F has brought to Malaysia its very first opera house in Johor Bahru on 19th January 2020. Located in the second largest city of Malaysia, the opera house is described as a sparkling diamond cluster that will be the most recognisable landmark between Malaysia and Singapore.
The opera house is sited just 1 kilometre away from the causeway, within the Central Business District (CBD) of Johor close to the Singapore-Malaysia Custom Immigration Quarantine (CIQ) in Johor. Its design was inspired by the shining diamond ornaments that don a princess’s crown and comprises 6 diamonds of various shapes and designs.
The uniqueness of its design makes it stand out night and day. It faces the Straits of Johor, where patrons can view the beauty of the waterfront from inside the building. Its irregular surface is constructed out of over 15,600 equilateral triangle aluminium boards which symbolises stillness and the eternity of opera. The triangle is 1,600mm long on the side, in representation of the first surviving opera – Euridice by Jacopo Peri in the year of 1600.
Its semi- and fully-outdoor spaces can be used for events, offering a unique venue for all types of events. The architecture of the building is such that the staircases and viewing deck in front of the opera house can be transformed into an amphitheatre.
The place is also designed with an open concept, allowing visitor flow from all levels and directions. The commercial space is primely located with unblocked views of the sea, and the parking areas provide seamless access to the business streets.
The opera hall itself was designed to international standards and can accommodate up to 600 pax. This is inclusive of 5 VIP boxes on the second floor. Placement of the seats are set in a curved angle, to provide the audience the best views. This is complemented by great stage lighting and global leading sound system equipment, to provide the perfect opera experience.
The opera house was completed in 2019 and named after Her Majesty Raja Zarith Sofiah, the Permaisuri of Johor, with her blessing. It was also completed on the year of the 45th anniversary that marks 45 years of diplomatic ties between Malaysia and China. Hence the opera house is not just a landmark between Malaysia and Singapore, but also a symbol of friendship between Malaysia and China.
(27 January 2020)
