Palacio Valdés Theatre

Step into the heart of Avilés, a charming city in the Principality of Asturias, Spain, and you'll find yourself drawn to the magnificent Palacio Valdés Theatre. Known locally as Teatro Palacio Valdés, this cultural gem is not just a theatre but a living testament to the rich history and vibrant cultural life of Avilés. With its stunning architectural design and storied past, the Palacio Valdés Theatre is a must-visit for anyone exploring this beautiful region.

A Historical Monument

The Palacio Valdés Theatre is officially recognized as a Bien de Interés Cultural (BIC), a designation that marks it as a cultural heritage site of historical significance in Spain. This status was conferred upon the theatre on December 28, 1982, and published in the Spanish Official Gazette (BOE) on February 10, 1983. Managed by the Fundación Municipal de Cultura of the Avilés City Council, the theatre stands as a proud monument to the city's dedication to preserving its cultural heritage.

Architectural Brilliance

Designed by the renowned architect Manuel del Busto, the Palacio Valdés Theatre is an exquisite blend of Neobaroque and modernist styles. Construction began on August 5, 1900, with a grand ceremony attended by notable figures, including the famous writer Clarín. Despite facing numerous financial challenges that delayed its completion, the theatre was finally inaugurated in 1920. It was named in honor of the illustrious writer Armando Palacio Valdés, an adopted son of Avilés, who graced the opening event and was bestowed with the Grand Cross of Alfonso XII.

The theatre's interior is a marvel of design, featuring a longitudinal layout that parallels the street in front of it. This arrangement was chosen to overcome technical challenges posed by the construction site. The seating is arranged in a classic Italian opera house style, with a main floor and balconies, accommodating up to 747 spectators. One of its unique features is the adjustable seating area, which can be leveled with the stage to create a spacious ballroom, adding to the theatre's versatility.

A Storied Past

From its inauguration in 1920 until its closure in 1972, the Palacio Valdés Theatre enjoyed a golden era, hosting a wide variety of performances, including dramas, comedies, operettas, and variety shows. However, the theatre's fortunes waned after the Spanish Civil War, and it gradually fell into disuse, eventually serving primarily as a cinema. By 1972, the theatre had closed its doors, succumbing to neglect and disrepair.

The story of its revival is one of community effort and cultural pride. A grassroots movement, the Platform for the Recovery of the Palacio Valdés Theatre, rallied support and collected signatures from prominent cultural figures, advocating for the theatre's restoration. The campaign succeeded, and under municipal ownership, restoration work began in 1987, culminating in a grand reopening on November 14, 1992.

A New Era of Cultural Excellence

Since its reopening, the Palacio Valdés Theatre has once again become a beacon of cultural activity in Avilés. It is part of the Red Española de Teatros, Auditorios, Circuitos y Festivales de Titularidad Pública, a network of publicly-owned theatres and cultural venues in Spain. The theatre is highly respected by directors and actors alike, often serving as the venue for national premieres and important cultural events.

Over the years, the theatre has hosted numerous distinguished guests, both on stage and in the audience. In 1996, the then-Prince Felipe of Spain attended a performance at the theatre. The Palacio Valdés Theatre has also been a key venue for international cultural collaborations, such as The Bridge Project, which brought together entities like the Brooklyn Academy of Music in New York and the Old Vic Theatre in London. This collaboration led to memorable performances of Shakespeare's plays, including The Tempest by Sam Mendes' company and Richard III, featuring the acclaimed actor Kevin Spacey.

Celebrating a Century of Culture

In 2020, the Palacio Valdés Theatre celebrated its centenary with a series of special events and activities. The festivities began on August 9, 2020, with a two-day event that included a performance of the operetta El AS, the same work that inaugurated the theatre in 1920. The celebration also featured video mapping on the theatre's façade, live music, and an exhibition of large-format prints by four artists, each offering their unique vision of the theatre.

The centenary celebrations were a fitting tribute to a theatre that has played such a pivotal role in the cultural life of Avilés. Today, the Palacio Valdés Theatre continues to enchant audiences with its diverse programming, which includes theatre, dance, music, and more. It stands as a testament to the enduring power of the arts and the community's commitment to preserving its cultural heritage.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a lover of the performing arts, a visit to the Palacio Valdés Theatre is sure to be a highlight of your time in Avilés. Step inside this architectural masterpiece and let yourself be transported to a world where history and culture come alive in the most enchanting way.