Theatro Sete de Abril, Historic theatre in Pelotas, Brazil
The Theatro Sete de Abril is a theatre in downtown Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, built in the Italian architectural style of the 19th century, with four classical columns on its original facade. The interior features metal railings and carefully designed spaces that date from the same period.
The theatre was founded in 1831 and opened in 1833, making it the first of its kind in Rio Grande do Sul and the third oldest in Brazil. It was later restored through a national heritage preservation program and listed by IPHAN.
The name of the theatre refers to April 7, 1831, the day Emperor Dom Pedro I abdicated the Brazilian throne. In Pelotas, the building is still used for concerts, plays and local gatherings, and holds a place of real affection in the city's daily life.
The theatre sits in the heart of Pelotas and is easy to reach on foot from most parts of the city centre. It is worth checking in advance whether performances or guided tours are available, as access to the interior depends on the programme.
The theatre opened on a day that was also the name day of Emperor Dom Pedro I, which is said to have influenced the choice of date for the inauguration. It is also one of the few theatres in Brazil that has remained in almost continuous use since its founding in the 19th century.
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