Old Theatre

Santa Cruz de Tenerife · Category: Memory · Subcategory: Sites of memory · Year: 1835

The "Old Theatre" is known as the predecessor of the current Guimerá theatre.

Since the 18th century, Santa Cruz had rooms in private houses, public squares, depots and warehouses that served as improvised venues for numerous artistic activities related to drama and entertainment. In 1833 the city had a provisional theatre located in a premises on Calle del Tigre. Its life was not long, lacking the minimum adequate conditions. The local bourgeoisie then pressured the authorities to build a proper theatre. The site was chosen (where the Casino is today) and it was named (Isabel II); but it was never carried out.

As a solution to the problem, what would later be known as the "Old Theatre" was launched, which at first was nothing more than a large warehouse occupying the wide block bounded by Calle de la Marina, San Felipe Neri (today Emilio Calzadilla) and Callejón Bouza. The space measured 42 metres long by 12 wide and was adapted for a capacity of 450 seats. It was illuminated by three crystal chandeliers with 26 candles each.

The venue was inaugurated on Christmas Eve 1835. The comedy No más mostrador , by Mariano José de Larra, was performed on the occasion.

The premises operated continuously for a little more than 15 years. Here, various theatrical, operatic and variety companies en route to America, as well as local amateurs, performed their shows until the municipal theatre, later called "Guimerá", was inaugurated in 1851. Then the "Old Theatre" came to host some parties and various dances, gradually falling into neglect until its total ruin.

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