Teatro Sauto
Plaza de la Vigía, Matanzas
When it opened in 1863, it was named Teatro Esteban?after the Civil Governor in Cuba at the time?but soon adopted the last name of Ambrosio de la Concepción Sauto, a patron of the arts who contributed much to its construction and splendour. Due to the proximity of Matanzas with the capital, the proverbial sensitivity and culture of its people, and the solvency of its rich landowners, the Sauto Theatre was visited regularly by the great performers that arrived in Havana. Today, besides being a sub-venue for important international events held in the capital?such as the International Ballet Festival and Mayo Teatral?it opens its doors an average of five days a week as a result of an intensive and stable program for frequent and knowledgeable audiences. Considered the most elegant and functional of 19th-century Cuban theatres, it has become a symbol of the city, so much so that the great Mexican muralist Diego Rivera once said, "I recognize Matanzas by the Sauto." The theatre was declared National Monument in 1978.
Plaza de la Vigía, Matanzas
When it opened in 1863, it was named Teatro Esteban?after the Civil Governor in Cuba at the time?but soon adopted the last name of Ambrosio de la Concepción Sauto, a patron of the arts who contributed much to its construction and splendour. Due to the proximity of Matanzas with the capital, the proverbial sensitivity and culture of its people, and the solvency of its rich landowners, the Sauto Theatre was visited regularly by the great performers that arrived in Havana. Today, besides being a sub-venue for important international events held in the capital?such as the International Ballet Festival and Mayo Teatral?it opens its doors an average of five days a week as a result of an intensive and stable program for frequent and knowledgeable audiences. Considered the most elegant and functional of 19th-century Cuban theatres, it has become a symbol of the city, so much so that the great Mexican muralist Diego Rivera once said, "I recognize Matanzas by the Sauto." The theatre was declared National Monument in 1978.
