Ethiopian National Theatre

The Ethiopian National Theatre is a performance venue in central Addis Ababa with approximately 1,260 seats. The building houses several specialized divisions that present drama, music, and dance performances in different halls.

The building was originally constructed as Cinema Marconi during Italian occupation and was completed in 1955 as a national cultural landmark. Its conversion into a dedicated performance house marked an important shift in the city's artistic infrastructure.

The venue shapes the artistic identity of Addis Ababa through its resident music groups and dance ensembles that perform regularly for audiences. These groups blend classical Ethiopian traditions with contemporary interpretations and draw both locals and visitors into the space.

The venue hosts regular performances ranging from drama to dance, and spaces are available for conferences or community events. Plan your visit to the central location and check locally for current programming and availability.

The building retains structures from its earlier cinema period while functioning as a complete theatre complex, revealing visible architectural layers. This overlap of past and present use creates an unusual spatial experience for visitors.

Location: Addis Ababa

Inception: 1955

Official opening: 1955

Capacity: 1260

Address: Gambia Street

GPS coordinates: 9.01611,38.75190

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:07