The Angela Peralta, a theater in Guanajuato that you should know

Published May 12, 2023

The story behind one of San Miguel de Allende’s iconic cultural venues is fascinating. We will be transported to the past, specifically to April 1871, when the construction of this magnificent theater began. All thanks to the initiative of the main administrator of rents, Juan Mañón.

After two years of hard work, the theater was finally finished, with its adobe walls and roof tilamanil. At the time, Mexico was amazed by the extraordinary voice of soprano Angela Peralta, who was in Guanajuato. It was then that it was decided that she would be in charge of inaugurating the theater on May 11, with the presentation of the opera “Rigoletto”. This is how the Theater took the name of this outstanding Mexican soprano.

In 1886, the first repair of the theatre was carried out, including the adaptation of the roof with sheets. And in 1915, under the direction of the political boss Don Antonio Abarca, the current façade was built, a work of harmonious, simple and tasteful beauty, in classical style, designed by the talented master mason Don Antonio de la Sierra.

Before the construction of the Angela Peralta Theater, San Miguel de Allende lacked a formal theater, beyond the improvised theaters and tents used for theatrical performances and festive colloquiums. However, at the end of the nineteenth century, this important city demanded an adequate cultural space.

So in April 1871, thanks to the initiative of Juan Mañón, with the support of the Municipal Treasury and a shareholders’ meeting composed of prominent neighbors, the construction of the theater began.

Soprano Angela Peralta was enthusiastically received in San Miguel de Allende. On her arrival in the city, people tore the mules from the carriage to serve as traction in which the famous singer came. His debut on Sunday, May 11 with “Rigoletto” was a success, with the theater and streets crowded with neighbors and inhabitants of San Miguel.

After the premiere of the Angela Peralta Theater, several theater companies that went to the states of Guanajuato, Querétaro and other nearby regions, also performed in San Miguel. In addition, in 1880 a permanent amateur company was formed under the direction of José Manuel de Sauto.

The theater has witnessed countless triumphs and performances by outstanding artists throughout its history. Great figures such as the famous Esperanza Iris have left their mark under its tin roof.

Today, the Angela Peralta Theater remains a cultural reference in San Miguel de Allende, offering a variety of shows and events that enrich the cultural life of the city. It is a true treasure that reminds us of the importance of art and music in our lives.

The Angela Peralta Theater is much more than just a building. It is a symbol of the passion for the performing arts and a place where part of the cultural history of San Miguel de Allende has been written. Over the years, it has hosted talented actors, musicians and dancers, as well as enthusiastic spectators who have vibrated with each performance.

Every corner of this theater keeps the echoes of emotions, laughter and applause that have resonated over the years. It is a space that has witnessed the evolution of the performing arts and has been the scene of countless unforgettable moments.

If you have the opportunity, do not hesitate to visit this cultural treasure of San Miguel de Allende. Delve into its historic walls and let yourself be carried away by the magic of art. No matter if you are a theater lover or simply want to live a unique cultural experience, the Angela Peralta Theater awaits you with open arms.

In each function, in each presentation, the essence of Angela Peralta and the passion for the arts are present. The legacy of this great Mexican soprano endures in every note, in every scene and in every applause that fills the theater.

So let’s celebrate and value the existence of places like the Angela Peralta Theater, where art becomes a bridge that brings people together and enriches our lives. Let us continue to support and enjoy the cultural expressions that give us moments of beauty and emotions that will last in our memory.

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