The stage for an important part of Funchal's dynamic cultural life, the Teatro Municipal Baltazar Dias is a monument of great relevance, whose elegance is quite prominent in the city centre. It is worth getting to know this space for its historical and architectural value, but also for its programming.
After the demolition of the Teatro Grande in 1833, the Madeirans called for the construction of a new theatre in Funchal for much of the 19th century. The official inauguration of this new space would eventually take place on 11 March 1888. Built in the image of the Italian model, it followed the prototype of São Carlos Theatre, in Lisbon, and La Scala Theatre, in Milan.
After having had several names, such as 'D. Maria Pia', 'Dr. Manuel de Arriaga' or 'Teatro Funchalense', reflecting the changing times, it would eventually be named 'Teatro Municipal Baltazar Dias', in 1935 in honour of this blind playwright and poet, born in Madeira in the 16th century.
To the undeniable architectural value of the Baltazar Dias Municipal Theatre, marked by balance, is added the decoration and scenography carried out by two famous artists: Italian Luigi Manini and Portuguese Eugénio do Nascimento Cotrim. Today, it is a space of reference on the Portuguese cultural scene.
Officially opened in 1888, the Baltazar Dias Municipal Theatre has an elegant and balanced architectural style, following the typically Italian model. It is a central space in the cultural life of Funchal.
Adapted toilets; stair climbers that allow access through stairs to the building; visit guide in Braille; lowered ticketing counter; 3D model of the building; two places for wheelchairs in the performance hall.
Monday and Tuesday: 09:00 - 12:30 | 14:00 - 17:30 | Wednesday and Thursday: 09:00 - 21:30 | Friday: 09:00 - 21:30 | Saturday and Sunday: 13:30 - 21:30
