The Municipal Theater (Theatro Municipal de São Paulo) is both a magnificent concert hall and one of São Paulo’s true architectural masterpieces. It’s a place where the lavishly decorated façades and interior are as much attractions as the performances. Attend ballet, orchestral, opera and popular music shows and take a guided tour of this fabulous arts venue.
Designed by Brazilian and Italian architects, the Municipal Theater’s exterior was influenced by the Palais Garnier, the Paris opera house. Observe the fusion of baroque and renaissance features. Take a moment to admire the arched windows, balustrades, tall columns and large copula. The theater was fully restored for its centennial anniversary in 2011.
Inside, grand staircases lead from the lobby to elegant balconies and rooms adorned with gold and marble décor. Stroll through the magnificent hall and pause to marvel at the ceiling frescoes, stained glass panels and a statue by sculptor Victor Brecheret, called Diana the Huntress. Other highlights of the theater’s décor include works by Brazilian painter Oscar Pereira da Silva. Learn more about the art, architecture and history of the Municipal Theater by going on a guided tour.
Book tickets for one of the many shows that are performed throughout the year. You might see interpretations of works by great composers such as Mozart and Wagner, ballet shows or performances by chamber music groups and symphonic orchestras. Among the celebrated artistes who have graced the stage here are Enrico Caruso, Maria Callas, Ana Pavlova and Mikhail Baryshnikov.
The Municipal Theater is situated in downtown São Paulo and is easy to reach via public transport. The Anhangabaú metro station is a short walk away. Drivers park, for a fee, in the garage in the nearby Arts Plaza. To find out what’s on at the theater during your stay in the city, visit its official website. Free guided tours in English take place every day except Sunday and Monday.
