Manila Metropolitan Theater

The Metropolitan Theater is a rectangular building with side pavilions in Ermita, a district of Manila. The property covers about 8,300 square meters (around 89,000 square feet) and shows Philippine patterns on façade and interior spaces.

The theater opened in December 1931 and was considered at the time a modern stage for classical performances. The Battle of Manila in 1945 destroyed large parts of the roof and outer walls.

The architecture shows palms, narra trees, and native flowers that Tampingco carved as reliefs into walls and ceilings. Many visitors recognize in them the effort to combine Western style with tropical flora.

The hall holds about 1,670 seats in three areas: orchestra with 846 seats, loge with 116 seats, and balcony with 708 seats. The seats are arranged in rows so that the stage is well visible from almost every spot.

The phrase „On Wings of Song

Location: Manila

Architects: Juan M. Arellano

Official opening: December 10, 1931

Architectural style: Art Deco

GPS coordinates: 14.59417,120.98056

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:23