Teatro Cervantes
Teatro Cervantes is a historic theatre in the heart of Malaga. Located close to the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, Plaza de la Merced, this theatre has become one of the city’s main cultural hubs.
Designed by Gerónimo Cuervo González (Madrid, 1838 – Malaga, 1898), the theatre is known for its eclectic architectural style, the idea for which was conceived by a group of prominent individuals with strong ties to the arts and culture in the second half of the 19th century.
This came after a devastating fire destroyed the Teatro de la Libertad, formerly known as the Príncipe Alfonso theatre, leaving the city without a space to accommodate the various performing arts which were flourishing at the time due to the city’s rapid economic growth.
Rebirth and renewal
When it first opened on 17 December 1870, the Teatro Cervantes played a pivotal role in the city’s cultural life. However, by 1950, it had suffered neglect and decay, eventually becoming a bar and a cinema venue.
However, in 1984, city hall decided to acquire the theatre and undertook extensive restoration, financed by government subsidies. It was successfully reopened in 1987, boasting a seating capacity of a little over 1,000.
A wide range of events
Numerous renovations followed, including the installation of an acoustic shell, a hydraulic platform for various stage configurations, and enhanced accessibility features. As a result, the theatre is now a vibrant hub for diverse cultural activities, offering a wide range of performances and events, especially concerts and theatrical productions, that cater to all segments of the community.
The Teatro Cervantes is also the venue for many festivals that take place in the city, including the Malaga Film Festival every March.
Click here to check out the programme of upcoming events.
Daryl is the co-founder of Malaga Guru. He is a copywriter, editor and translator who moved to Malaga a decade ago having first fallen in love with the city on his Erasmus year. After working for many years at local expat newspaper SUR in English, Daryl gained expert knowledge in life from the perspective of foreign residents and decided to co-found this site in 2016.