The Teatro Colón is a major Buenos Aires landmark and a world-renowned venue for opera and ballet. It is also the home of the Buenos Aires Philharmonic Orchestra and hosts classical music concerts. Opened in 1908 with a performance of Giuseppe Verdi’s Aida, the theatre has since welcomed some of the biggest names in opera and ballet, including Feodor Chaliapin, Igor Stravinsky and Luciano Pavarotti.
Watching a performance here is a captivating experience the acoustics are considered to be among the best in the world. The horseshoe-shaped hall, with a seating capacity of almost 2,500, resembles the design of classic French and Italian theatres and is surrounded by three tiers of box seats. Take time to admire the opulent décor and look for the intricate ceiling paintings by Marcel Jambon, later restored by Argentine Raúl Soldi. The performance season runs from March through December. Popular performances include the operas Carmen and Otello, in addition to ballets such as Don Quixote and Swan Lake.
A great way to learn about the history of the theatre is by taking a guided tour. Hear the interesting story of the various architects commissioned to design the theatre. Spot antique furnishings, grand chandeliers, sculptures and stained-glass windows, most notably in the Golden Hall.
Adjacent to the theatre is Plaza Estado del Vaticano, a public square and cultural space where you can watch concerts and theatrical performances on a giant television screen free of charge.
The theatre borders 9 de Julio Avenue in Buenos Aires’ city centre. Public buses, the metro and a hop-on, hop-off tourist bus all stop close to the theatre’s main entrance.
Although Teatro Colón tickets can be fairly high in price, the experience provides excellent value for money. If you are on a budget, choose the low-cost tickets for the 500 standing places in the upper galleries. Visit the theatre’s official website for full ticketing information and details of free events. Free tickets are generally available on a first-come, first-served basis from the theatre’s box office. Tours take place daily, except for select public holidays. Find full details on the theatre’s official website.
