Looking to experience the cultural heartbeat of Buenos Aires? Corrientes Street, famous for its dazzling theater scene, offers a captivating array of performances and historic venues that are a must-visit for any digital nomad, traveler, or expat.
From grand spectacles to intimate dramas, these theaters are the essence of Buenos Aires’ rich artistic heritage.
ExpatPathways invites you to explore the best theaters on Corrientes Street, where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly to create unforgettable nights of entertainment in the vibrant heart of the city.
The Best Theaters on Corrientes Street (Buenos Aires)
1. Teatro Gran Rex
Location: Av. Corrientes 857.
Teatro Gran Rex, located at 857 Avenida Corrientes, is a renowned theater just 200 meters from the Obelisk of Buenos Aires. Known for hosting major musical spectacles and featuring both national and international artists, Gran Rex is a cornerstone of the city’s vibrant theater scene.
This iconic venue, designed by architect Alberto Prebisch and completed in 1937, showcases a striking Modernist architecture with a large, glass-paneled facade that allows passersby to view its interior. Inspired by New York’s Radio City, the theater’s grand, minimalist interior is constructed with Italian Botticcino marble, wood paneling, and bronze accents.
With a capacity of 3,262 spectators, Gran Rex is one of the largest theaters in Buenos Aires. The theater’s design emphasizes a seamless transition between its exterior and interior spaces, featuring an impressive foyer separated from the street by a glazed surface.
The interior is devoid of decorative elements, favoring a clean and simple aesthetic that stands in contrast to the ornate designs typical of traditional theaters. The Gran Rex continues to be a premier destination for top-tier performances and a significant example of Argentina’s architectural heritage.
2. Teatro Ópera
Location: Av. Corrientes 860.
Situated at Avenida Corrientes 860, Teatro Ópera is another historic gem of Buenos Aires, just 200 meters from the Obelisk. The theater’s origins date back to 1872 when it was first established by entrepreneur Antonio Pestalardo.
Over the years, it has undergone several renovations, with the current building designed by Belgian architect Alberto Bourdon in 1935. The Ópera features a distinctive Art Deco facade inspired by the Cinema Rex in Paris, with a capacity for 2,500 spectators and a versatile stage suitable for various performances.
Teatro Ópera’s grand facade is marked by its central curved volume, columns, elongated windows, and a recognizable telescopic tower. The front is clad in black granite, with two symmetrical glass panels creating characteristic semicircular patterns.
The marquee, with its three circular lamps, illuminates the sidewalk at night, changing colors to create a dynamic visual effect. Inside, the theater combines elegance with functionality, offering a significant architectural landmark and a vital cultural venue in Buenos Aires’ theater district.
3. Teatro El Nacional
Location: Av. Corrientes 960.
Teatro El Nacional, located at Avenida Corrientes 960, is a historic theater established in 1906 by the famous actor Jerónimo Podestá. Originally named “National,” the theater had to change its name in 1936 due to a decree and became “El Nacional” in 1940.
With a capacity of 1,014 seats, divided between the main floor, boxes, and balconies, El Nacional is known for its state-of-the-art technology and lighting systems, making it a premier venue for theatrical performances.
Alejandro Romay acquired the theater in the 1960s and has since transformed it into a central hub for the performing arts in Buenos Aires. Under his management, the theater has hosted numerous renowned playwrights, actors, musicians, choreographers, and directors.
The theater’s mission is to nourish the spirit, transform perspectives, and enrich knowledge through its diverse and dynamic performances. El Nacional remains a vital part of Buenos Aires’ cultural fabric, continuing to honor its founders’ legacy while embracing modern advancements.
4. Teatro Maipo
Location: Av. Corrientes & Esmeralda.
Teatro Maipo, a historic theater in downtown Buenos Aires, was founded in 1908 by entrepreneur Charles Seguin. Originally called the Scala Theater, it later became the Esmerelda Theatre before adopting its current name. Located near the Obelisk, Teatro Maipo features 754 seats and is known for its “Italian-style” interior and Art Deco architecture.
The theater has experienced several closures and reopenings, with its most recent restoration taking place in 1994 under the ownership of former dancer Julio Bocca. The comprehensive renovation preserved the venue’s historic charm while incorporating modern amenities.
The Maipo Theatre has hosted a variety of performances over the years, from traditional theater to contemporary shows. Its restoration in 1994 included updates to its sound and lighting systems, ensuring it could accommodate the technical demands of modern productions.
With its prime location and rich history, Teatro Maipo continues to be a beloved venue for both locals and tourists, offering a unique blend of historical ambiance and cutting-edge theatrical technology.
5. Teatro Astros
Location: Av. Corrientes 746.
Teatro Astros, located in Buenos Aires’ theater district, offers a versatile venue with a seating capacity of 507, including a main hall with 345 seats. The theater features a spacious central aisle that connects the audience to the stage and backstage areas, facilitating seamless transitions for performers.
With modern lighting and sound equipment operated by professional technical staff, Teatro Astros is well-equipped to host a variety of events, from theater productions to concerts and film screenings.
The theater reopened in May 2022 after extensive renovations aimed at establishing it as an accessible cultural space. The inaugural performance of “Las Irresponsables,” directed by Javier Daulte and starring Gloria Carrá, Julieta Díaz, and Paola Krum, marked the beginning of this new chapter.
Teatro Astros is committed to being a pluralistic space, offering a diverse array of performances that include dance, music, and other performing arts. Its modern facilities and dedication to excellence make it a standout venue on Corrientes Street.
6. Teatro Tabarís
Location: Av. Corrientes 831.
Teatro Tabarís, also known as MultiTabaris, is a classic revue theater located at Avenida Corrientes 831. Originally a cabaret called Royal Pigall, it opened its doors on July 7, 1924. Despite a challenging start, with a malfunctioning heating system on its opening night, the theater quickly became a prominent entertainment venue.
It was the first public place in Buenos Aires to feature air conditioning and was known for its luxurious private shows. The theater has hosted many notable figures, including Prince Edward of Wales, Orson Welles, Maurice Chevalier, Carlos Gardel, and Federico García Lorca.
In 1937, the theater was remodeled by architect Rafael Sammartino, who gave it a modern Art Deco facade with sleek columns and a glazed front. The venue now features a main hall with 551 seats and a smaller 160-seat hall in the basement, known as Petit Tabarís.
Acquired by entrepreneur Carlos Rottemberg in 1989, the theater was leased to an evangelical church from 1998 to 2006, after which it rejoined Rottemberg’s circuit of theaters. Teatro Tabarís remains a key player in Buenos Aires’ theater scene, celebrated for its historical significance and vibrant programming.
7. Teatro Broadway
Location: Av. Corrientes 1155.
Teatro Broadway, originally known as Cine-Teatro Broadway, is an iconic theater on Avenida Corrientes. Designed by Hungarian architect Jorge Kálnay in 1929, this theater is a prime example of the Art Deco style in Buenos Aires. The building underwent significant restoration in 1999, transforming its upper floors into the Broadway Hotel & Suites.
Teatro Broadway boasts a parabolic ceiling that provides excellent acoustics and has a capacity of 2,265 seats. The theater has hosted numerous notable events, including a performance by the legendary Carlos Gardel in 1931.
The theater’s history is rich with cultural significance, having dedicated itself exclusively to Argentine films in the 1940s and modernizing its sound system in the 1950s. Despite various renovations, it has maintained its original architectural charm, including an innovative air conditioning system and a column-free interior supported by Vierendeel trusses.
Today, Teatro Broadway continues to be a vital part of Buenos Aires’ cultural landscape, offering a blend of historic ambiance and modern amenities.
8. Teatro Lola Membrives
Location: Av. Corrientes 1280.
Teatro Lola Membrives, an architectural gem on Corrientes Street, has been a prominent venue for the performing arts since its inauguration in 1914. Named after the renowned actress Lola Membrives, this theater has hosted a plethora of legendary performers, including Eva Franco, Tita Merello, and Libertad Lamarque.
The theater is celebrated for its commitment to musical comedy, often vying with other top venues like Teatro Alvear and Teatro El Nacional.
The building itself is a masterpiece, featuring a neo-Renaissance Italian facade with large arched windows adorned with colorful stained glass. The interior is equally impressive, with a marble-floored foyer, elegant boiserie, and a horseshoe-shaped auditorium typical of classic Italian theaters.
The theater’s dome is illuminated, adding to the grandeur of the space. Teatro Lola Membrives offers a unique experience with its timeless elegance and rich history, making it a cherished landmark in Buenos Aires’ vibrant theater district.
9. Multiteatro
Location: Av. Corrientes 1283.
Multiteatro, located at Avenida Corrientes 1283, is one of Buenos Aires’ premier theatrical venues and a registered trademark of the largest theater company in Argentina. Operating continuously since its inception, Multiteatro is known for its broad and selective programming that caters to diverse audiences.
The complex houses four modern theaters with a combined seating capacity of 1,333, featuring state-of-the-art architectural advancements and facilities.
Each theater within Multiteatro offers a unique experience, whether you are attending a play, a musical, or a comedy show. The central corridor connects the audience directly to the backstage and dressing rooms, ensuring a seamless flow.
With a spacious lobby and elevators providing access to all areas, Multiteatro is designed to offer maximum comfort and accessibility to its patrons. The technical staff is on hand to assist with lighting and sound, making it a top choice for high-quality productions and events.
10. Teatro Metropolitan SURA
Location: Av. Corrientes 1343.
Teatro Metropolitan SURA, an Art Deco gem on Avenida Corrientes, has been a staple of Buenos Aires’ cultural scene since its inauguration in 1937. Designed by the engineers Germán and J. B. Joselevich, E. Ramírez, and Rafael Abril, the theater features a distinctive stepped tower that makes its silhouette recognizable from a distance.
Originally named Cine-Teatro Metropolitan, it was built during a period when cinema began to eclipse traditional theater in the entertainment industry.
The Metropolitan has two main theaters, Sala 1 with 860 seats and Sala 2 with 598 seats, both utilized for a wide range of performances including plays, musicals, stand-up comedy, and children’s shows.
The theater’s grand lobby, lined with Botticino marble, reflects its historic elegance while the modernized sound and lighting systems ensure top-notch performances. Its versatility and rich history make Teatro Metropolitan SURA a vital part of Buenos Aires’ vibrant theatrical tradition.
11. Teatro Apolo
Location: Av. Corrientes 1372.
Teatro Apolo, founded in 1886, is one of the oldest theaters in Buenos Aires, located at Avenida Corrientes 1372. This historic venue has hosted a multitude of renowned actors, directors, and musicians over the decades, including the likes of Tita Merello and Libertad Lamarque.
After extensive renovations led by artist and producer Isabel Majdalani in 2008, the theater was revitalized and continues to thrive as a significant cultural hub.
The restoration preserved its classic charm while upgrading facilities like seating, sound, and lighting systems to meet modern standards.
The Apolo now features eight remodeled floors, including enhanced stage and backstage areas, making it a preferred venue for a variety of performances from traditional plays to contemporary shows. Its rich legacy and renewed infrastructure position Teatro Apolo as a cherished landmark in the Buenos Aires theater scene.
12. Paseo La Plaza
Location: Av. Corrientes 1660.
Paseo La Plaza is a dynamic cultural center on Avenida Corrientes, offering a diverse range of theatrical performances, concerts, and conventions. Opened in 1989 on the site of an old market, the center retains much of its historical charm with contemporary enhancements.
It houses five main theaters: Pablo Picasso, Pablo Neruda, Alfonsina Storni, Julio Cortázar, and Pablo Casals, each catering to different types of events and audiences.
The Pablo Picasso theater, with a capacity of 444 seats, and Pablo Neruda theater, with 520 seats, are the main venues for major productions.
Smaller rooms like the Alfonsina Storni, Julio Cortázar, and Pablo Casals theaters provide intimate spaces for workshops, exhibitions, and smaller performances. Paseo La Plaza also features a variety of restaurants and shops, making it a comprehensive cultural and social destination in Buenos Aires.
(Featured Image Source: Horacio Rodríguez Larreta/flickr.com)
