Timeline
Construction Begins
Construction begins under the presidency of Dr. Raimundo Andueza Palacios (1890-1892). The building would take 22 years to complete.
Inauguration as Teatro Bolívar
On December 19, 1913, the theater is inaugurated as Teatro Bolívar by General Pedro José Rodríguez, governor of Aragua. The facade was inspired by La Scala in Milan.
Demolition and Cinema
Dr. Antonio José Hermoso acquires the building and demolishes the interior to build Cine Ribas. Only the original facade survives.
Municipal Declaration
On December 17, 1992, the municipality reclaims the building and declares it Teatro Municipal José Félix Ribas.
Grand Reopening
On July 11, 2024, the theater reopens after a 15-week integral restoration. Capacity: 450 seats. Over 40,000 visitors in the first 6 months.
Architecture & Heritage
The main facade features three doors with arches delimited by cylindrical columns. Ornamental details include rectangular moldings with triglyphs, metopes, dentils and decorative figures. The design was inspired by the facade of Teatro La Scala in Milan.
After the 2024 restoration, the exterior palette features golden yellow, vermilion red and white, with semicircular stained glass above the doors and architectural RGB lighting at night.
A full house at Teatro Ribas during a live performance.