Municipal Theatre Sá de Miranda

Category: Culture and Entertainment > Theatre

District: Viana do Castelo > Viana do Castelo > Viana do Castelo > Santa Maria Maior e Monserrate e Meadela

Location

The Municipal Theatre Sá de Miranda is located in the heart of Viana do Castelo, in the parish of Santa Maria Maior e Monserrate e Meadela. Situated on the street that bears its name, it is a cultural landmark well integrated into the urban fabric, easily accessible to those exploring the city and its characteristic streets.

Heritage and Origins

Considered one of the oldest theatres in Portugal that still preserves its original characteristics, the Sá de Miranda opened its doors to the public on April 29, 1885. Its construction was driven by a group of local enthusiasts who, in 1879, formed the Companhia Fomentadora Vianense, with the purpose of providing the city with a cultural space of excellence. The name is a tribute to the notable Portuguese Renaissance poet, Francisco de Sá de Miranda, linking the building to the rich national literary and artistic heritage.

Architecture and Interior Details

Designed by architect José Geraldo da Silva Sardinha, the Municipal Theatre Sá de Miranda features a distinct Italian style. Inside, the horseshoe-shaped auditorium and the three tiers of boxes stand out, giving the space an intimate and welcoming atmosphere. Attention to detail is visible in the proscenium curtain, created by Luigi Manini and painted by Hercole Labertini, both scenographers from the Teatro Nacional de São Carlos, in Lisbon. The ceiling, a trompe l'oeil painting simulating the sky and incorporating portraits of dramatists, is the work of João Baptista do Rio, complemented by twenty friezes that enrich the visual experience of those seated there.

A Space in Renewal

Throughout its history, the Sá de Miranda adapted to the times, also functioning as a cinema for a period. Acquired by the City Council in 1985, the building underwent significant refurbishment interventions, the first in 1993 and a second in 2000, which modernised its facilities. Currently, the theatre is equipped with two performance halls, a rehearsal room, an exhibition hall, and a café-concert room, reflecting its versatility. Since 1991, it has been home to the resident company, Teatro do Noroeste, Centro Dramático de Viana, actively contributing to the cultural life of the region.

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