Little Theater of the Ruler

Category: Culture and Entertainment > Theatre

District: Vila Real > Peso da Régua > Peso da Régua

Location

The Teatrinho da Régua is located in the heart of the city of Peso da Régua, in an easily accessible urban area. Its historical location is at the corner formed by Rua da Ferreirinha and Rua Custódio José Vieira, marking a discreet but significant presence in the urban fabric. Despite its affectionate name "Teatrinho," which suggests its more intimate dimension, its central position makes it a visible cultural point in the locality's life.

A Century-Old History

The genesis of the Teatrinho dates back to the early 20th century, specifically to 1912, when a group of local notable figures united with the vision of creating a space dedicated to leisure and culture. They acquired and demolished two houses at the current site to give shape to what was then called the Salão Recreativo Reguense. The space opened its doors to the public with a film screening, a landmark event for the time. Throughout its existence, it has witnessed the evolution of entertainment, adapting from an Italian-style theatre, where amateur companies promoted lyrical music, to a popular cinema, reflecting the cultural trends of each period.

Architecture and Heritage Relevance

The architecture of the Teatrinho da Régua stands out for its fusion of styles, namely Revivalism and Art Nouveau. Its rectangular plan accommodates a stage, stalls, and two balconies, demonstrating a classic design for a performance hall. The facades are adorned with framed openings, exhibiting curved shapes that reveal the influence of Art Nouveau, establishing a bridge between the past and the modernity of the era. Inside, the wooden balconies and loggias with convex metal railings reveal an elegance characteristic of Art Nouveau, with light and sinuous structures adorning the walls, supported by pillars and pilasters with painted capitals. Due to its uniqueness and value, the Teatrinho da Régua was recognized as an Imóvel de Interesse Público (IIP) (Property of Public Interest).

A Renewed Cultural Hub

After a period of degradation that took it away from its original function, the Teatrinho da Régua underwent a recovery project aimed at restoring its character and equipping it with the necessary contemporary conditions. This collaborative effort allowed the Teatrinho to regain its vitality as a benchmark cultural facility in the region. Currently, the space is available for a variety of artistic and cultural events, from small performances and theatrical productions to conferences and exhibitions, consolidating its importance as a dynamic venue for sharing and celebrating culture in Peso da Régua.

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