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Theatre · Paysandú, Paysandú
Florencio Sánchez Theatre
A 19th-century theatre in the center of Paysandú, opened in 1876 as Teatro Progreso and renamed in 1921 in honor of the Uruguayan playwright. It has about 700 seats and is a national historic monument.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Florencio Sánchez Theatre
The theatre’s cornerstone was laid on September 23, 1860. Construction stopped with the siege of Paysandú in 1864–1865 and was only resumed years later under the direction of Swiss master builders Bernardo and Francisco Poncini. The theatre opened on October 6, 1876 as Teatro Progreso.
From the beginning it was an artistic and social meeting point for the city. The first performance was the Italian drama "Morte Civile" by Paolo Giacometti. On October 12, 1915, the complete score of the Uruguayan national anthem was performed there for the first time.
A renovation led by architects Jacobo Vázquez Varela and Daniel Rocco expanded the structure and comfort, and the hall reopened in July 1917. In 1921 the theatre was renamed Florencio Sánchez in honor of the Uruguayan playwright, one of the founders of Río de la Plata theatre.
It was declared a national historic monument in 1975. The hall seats about 700 spectators and hosts plays, concerts and festivals throughout the year.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 30 minutes to see the façade and lobby; a performance takes up the evening.
Best time
On performance nights, to see the hall in use. Visits inside depend on the theatre's programming and administration: confirm before you go.
How to get there
It is in the center of Paysandú, at the corner of 19 de Abril and 18 de Julio, a few blocks from the basilica and Plaza Constitución.
Tip
Check the city's program before your trip: a play or concert is the surest way to see the hall inside. Tickets are sold separately; check the current schedule and pricing.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Florencio Sánchez Theatre
When was the Florencio Sánchez Theater of Paysandú inaugurated?
On October 6, 1876, under the name Teatro Progreso. The cornerstone dates from 1860; construction halted during the 1864–1865 siege.
Why is the theater called Florencio Sánchez?
Since 1921 it has borne the name of Uruguayan playwright Florencio Sánchez, one of the founders of Río de la Plata theatre.
Can you visit the Teatro Florencio Sánchez inside?
The most reliable way is to attend a performance. Visits outside scheduled programs depend on the theatre administration; check ahead before you go.