Teatro Bolívar, Art Deco theatre in Historic Center, Quito, Ecuador

Teatro Bolívar is a theatre and former cinema on the pedestrian passage Eugenio Espejo, between Guayaquil and Flores streets in the Historic Center of Quito. The American firm Hoffman and Henon designed the 5,800-square-metre Art Deco building, which opened on 15 April 1933 and seats 2,200 people.

The building opened in 1933 and reflects the artistic movements of that era. Over the following decades, the theatre underwent renovations and repairs that shaped its current appearance.

The theatre serves as a gathering place for local performing artists and regularly hosts theatrical productions and musical performances from the city. Visitors can experience the active arts scene of Quito by watching actors and musicians present their work on its stage.

The theatre is located in the historic city center and is reachable on foot. Visitors should check ahead for the current schedule and access conditions, as hours may vary depending on performances.

The 1999 fire, caused by a gas leak in a neighbouring pizzeria, damaged about 70% of the building. The Fundación Teatro Bolívar, led by Rosa Victoria Pardo, was created in 2001 and has spent over two decades raising public and private funds for restoration, expected to finish in 2026.