BENGALURU: The first stirrings of life at the dilapidated Opera House, spotted around two years ago, infused new hope in the hearts of Bengalureans. After having lain in a state of disrepair for nearly a decade, caught in a string of legal hassles, the city resigned itself to losing one more heritage structure. That wasn't the case, however, with the doors to the Opera House - renamed Samsung Opera House - being thrown open on Tuesday.
During World War II, the elegant Opera House on Brigade Road was a sought-after venue for boxing matches! The sport and its venues are obsolete but the stunning heritage structure has received a back-to-the-future facelift. Built in the 1930s, the place became a hugely popular venue for dances and meetings, usually held by British soldiers, who made up the population of Bengaluru at the time. Perhaps that’s where it got its name: the etymology behind the name, Opera House, remains somewhat shrouded in mystery.
Younger Bengalureans will remember its last days as a movie theatre, although the building has been in disarray for years. From Boxing to waltzes, Opera House is now taking its place as the largest mobile experience centre in the world. Renovated and restored by Samsung, the Opera House will bring technology, lifestyle and innovation to the people, representatives from the company said during its inauguration on Tuesday.
While a technology experience centre is right at home in Bengaluru, Opera House is known and remembered as an icon of local culture, whether it was the boxing matches, the parties or the cinema. The venue’s cultural potential won’t be wasted either, the company intends to organise photography, stand-up comedy, music, food and startup events though the year. When the company conducted a survey of Bengalureans, they learned that 81% of them have had what they describe as a ‘game changer idea’, which could transform the country’s work and leisure life. For the most part, however, networking with like-minded people and finding mentors are always challenges. The new Opera House intends to meet those needs.
The 33,000 sq foot property has been restored over two years. The facade of the colonial era building has been left intact, although the interiors have been completely revamped with the extensive use of technology. Virtual Reality, Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things: These are phrases every tech-savvy Bengalurean loves to hear and will do so, from now on. There’s the 4D sway chair or the Whiplash Pulsar 4D chair, for instance, that makes 360-degree three-dimensinoal movements. One can slip into the role of fighter pilot doing extreme aircraft stunts, experience abattle in space or even a rollercoaster ride. Fitness enthusiasts can cycle across scenic Europe, if they choose!
“Today's consumers, especially millennials, seek unique experiences. They want to interact with the brand, touch, feel and create. This is what Samsung Opera House is about. We have curated never seen before experiences that will excite people of all age groups,” Mr H.C. Hong, president & CEO, Samsung SouthWest Asia, said.
