Considered one of the premier theatres in the world, Teatro Colón is renowned for its architectural beauty and superior acoustics. The current building, located in downtown Buenos Aires, took an eventful 20 years to construct and opened in 1908 with Giuseppe Verdi's opera 'Aїda'. Today, the theatre is still a must-visit destination to experience a performance in stunning surrounds.
Encompassing an area of 58,00sqm, the architecture of Teatro Colón adheres to the eclectic style of the early 20th century with the horseshoe-shaped main stage reflecting a classic European theatre. The ornate décor includes Italian marble, stained glass from France and Venetian mosaics with a grand central chandelier of 700 lights in the seven-tier main theatre, which accommodates 3,000 patrons in sumptuous red velvet seats. The orchestra pit can hold 120 musicians and boasts a resonance chamber and special curves to reflect the sound when, paired with the proportions of the theatre and the construction materials, confer that exceptionally rich sound for acoustics that are considered to be perfect. The theatre underwent a two-year renovation to reveal a structural and interior makeover in 2010. Other theatres within the venue include the Salón Dorado (Gold Room) with 24ct gold leaf, and the tiny Centro Experimental theatre beneath the main building.
The Teatro Colón season runs from April through to December staging opera, ballet and classical music concert performances. Same-day performance tickets are available for ARS35 for standing-room only in the Paraiso section at the back. Another option to view the historic theatre is by guided tour. The popular 50-minute tour is ARS110 (free for children under six years) and takes visitors behind the scenes to rehearsal rooms; costume, shoe and scenery workshops; as well as a view of the main stage from a opera box.
To visit Teatro Colón, the closest subte (metro) is Line D to Tribunales adjacent to the theatre. Tickets are available from the box office on Pasaje Toscanini, and the main entrance is Libertad between Tucumán and Viamonte.
