With its opulent architecture and fine acoustics, the Colon Theatre (Teatro Colón) ranks alongside Paris’ Opera Garnier and London’s Royal Opera House as one of the world’s most impressive theaters. Reopened after extensive renovations in 2010, the Colon Theatre is the premier venue for opera, ballet, and classical music in Buenos Aires.
The Basics
The regal façade of the Colon Theatre makes a popular photo stop on sightseeing tours of Buenos Aires, but visitors can also admire the lavish interiors on a guided theater tour. Tours take in all the highlights, including the Golden Hall, the Gallery of Busts, and the Main Foyer. Attending a performance at the luxurious, 7-story, 2,500-seat theater is an even more memorable experience.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There is an admission fee for visitors without performance tickets to enter the theater; a guided tour is included.
- Tours run daily, every 15 minutes (except during performance times) and last about 50 minutes.
- Tours are offered in multiple languages, including English.
- There is a range of seating options and ticket prices available for performances, but advance booking is always recommended.
- The theater is fully wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Colon Theatre is on the corner of Cerrito and Tucuman in downtown Buenos Aires. The closest subway (subte) station is Tribunales (Line D).
When to Get There
Head to the Colon Theatre in the evening to watch a performance; the striking building is most magnificent after dark, when it’s dramatically illuminated. Free performances are held monthly, usually on a Saturday or Sunday at 11am.
History of the Colon Theatre
The theater took more than 20 years and three architects to complete, before opening its doors in 1908. It has hosted some of the world’s greatest conductors, opera singers, and ballet dancers. Artists who have appeared include Igor Stravinsky, Maria Callas, Luciano Pavarotti, and Plácido Domingo. The theater is also famed for its set and costume workshops, as well as the Instituto Superior de Arte, where dancers Julio Bocca and Maximiliano Guerra trained.
