Theatro Circo

Category: Culture and Entertainment > Theatre

District: Braga > Braga > Braga > São João do Souto

Location

Located in the heart of the city of Braga, on the vibrant Avenida da Liberdade, Theatro Circo stands as an architectural and cultural landmark. It is situated in the parish of São João do Souto, a central area that makes it an easily accessible and visible point within Braga's urban fabric. Its prominent position contributes to its aura as a landmark cultural space.

Origins and Legacy

Theatro Circo was born from a collective dream at the beginning of the 20th century, driven by a group of Braga residents who felt the need to equip the city with a grand cultural stage. Built on part of the former Convento dos Remédios, the project, designed by architect Moura Coutinho, was completed in 1914. Its inauguration in 1915 marked the beginning of a rich history, revealing it as one of the largest and most beautiful theatres in the country at the time, adapted to host a wide range of shows and with a remarkable capacity for its era.

Architecture and Art

The architecture of Theatro Circo stands out for its distinct Italian style, evident in the design of the main hall. Inside, attention to artistic detail is evident. The imposing proscenium arch curtain, by Domingos Costa, is a painting that illustrates the essence of music, drama, and comedy. In the dome, visitors can admire part of Benvindo Ceia's original 1915 work, which depicts the dance of nymphs, an element that remains a symbol of good omen and protection for artists.

A Landmark Cultural Stage

Over the decades, Theatro Circo adapted and evolved, embracing transformations in the arts, from classical theatre and opera to sound cinema. Following a comprehensive requalification intervention at the beginning of the millennium, the building was modernized, preserving its original design and equipping itself with excellent technical conditions. Today, it remains a dynamic cultural epicenter in Braga, with a diverse program that encompasses all forms of performing arts. Its importance is underscored by its integration into the European Route of Historic Theatres, a distinction that connects it to the most beautiful and preserved European stages, consolidating its position in the cultural landscape.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt