Go behind the scenes on a guided tour of this 19th-century theater and attend concerts of classical, flamenco, jazz and tango music.
The Colón Theater (Teatro Colón) is a major performing arts venue that has been presenting cultural events to the city of Mar del Plata for over a century. Take a guided tour to learn about the long history of the Colón Theater and its architectural highlights. Book tickets for shows such as homages to famous names in the music industry, including Giacomo Puccini and Miles Davis.
The idea for the theater originated in the 1870s when a group of Spanish immigrants wanted to provide a stage for theatrical shows that celebrated their Basque, Castilian, Galician and Navarra roots. In 1882, wealthy city residents initiated the founding of the Sociedad Española (Spanish Society) and the start of a year-round agenda. After performing at a building close to Bristol Beach, the group moved to the theater’s current location in 1892. Note the multi-ethnic inspiration behind the establishment of the theater.
Take a moment to appreciate the building’s Spanish-inspired asymmetrical design. It features a central stone turret flanked by two identical towers. Look for the Gothic influences, including flamboyant arched windows and pinnacles. Inside, you’ll find a predominance of Moorish-style decorations such as coffered ceilings and mosaicked wall patterns.
Join a guided tour of the theater to get a deeper insight into its history and hear stories about its founding members. Visit the main auditorium and stage. Observe as actors, musicians and sound and light engineers prepare for events.
For a complete theater experience, book tickets for a show. Watch performances of chamber, flamenco, folkloric, jazz and tango music. See interpretations of the work of tango singer Carlos Gardel, jazz musician Miles Davis and composer Robert Schumann, among others. Discover both established and up-and-coming local singer-songwriters.
Find the theater on the west side of San Martín Square, in Mar del Plata’s city center. On the southern side of the square is the architecturally impressive Mar del Plata Cathedral.
Guided tours of the Colón Theater are available in English and have a fee. Ask at the reception desk for the current event schedule.
