This theater, Italy's largest, has undergone one of the most tumultuous constructions ever. It also claims to have the biggest stage in the world. Before its opening in 1897, the patrons had waited 20 years for the theater to open its doors, suffering through corruption and building delays. Again in 1973, it was closed for 23 years due to political in-fighting and corruption which delayed the intended restoration. Nowadays its home to some of the most spectacular theater, concert, and opera productions in the country featuring works from Verdi, Tchaikovsky, and Puccini.
Dedicated to Giuseppe Garibaldi, the Politeama Garibaldi is a graceful neo-classical theater so distinctive that inhabitants refer to Ruggero Settimo Square as "Piazza Politeama." Designed in neoclassical style by architect Damiani Almeyda, it was the first of a series of theaters built by wealthy urbanites in the second half of the 19th Century. Finished in 1874, the Teatro was central to Palermo's social life with operas, plays, equestrian events and gymnastics performed here. The circular shaped theater, supported by imposing ionic columns, has a seating capacity of 5000 and is reminiscent of ancient Rome and its traditions. The main peculiarity is the colorful fresco painting on the external surfaces representing a circus play in Pompeian style, making the theater look more pleasant and gentle than impressive. Originally a multifunctional theater, nowadays Politeama hosts mainly symphonic and chamber concerts, jazz and sometimes contemporary music. Especially noteworthy is the season offered every year by the "Amici della Musica" society.
In the middle part of the magnificent Via Roma, one will see the church called St. Antonio Abate and right in front of it, next to the elegant neoclassical facade of Palazzo Arezzo, stands the beautiful Teatro Biondo. Founded in 1903 when Palermo was experiencing a cultural revival, Teatro Biondo was Palermo's first opera house, also hosting circus performances. Today, the theater hosts mostly plays and many of Italy's most famous actors and best theater companies have graced Biondo's stage.
Teatro di Verdura is an outdoor theater used for summer performances by the Teatro Massimo and for the Verdura Theater Festival. Built in the early 18th century, a number fascinating sculptures and designs grace this venue, giving it a peculiar, classical charm. Located in the garden of Parco della Favorita, this 2,200 capacity theater is the neighborhood's center of live entertainment, staging numerous events and performances through the summer. While it is largely the venue for local theater groups, on certain occasions, one can special performances by renowned theater troupes at this theater.
Child of the 1968 creative wave, Teatro Libero signifies avante-garde theater in Palermo. Formerly hosted in the ex Hotel de France, since 1999 it has been housed in a building that encloses the ancient Renaissance portico of Santa Maria dei Miracoli Church, whose harmonic round arches are nowadays still visible beside the audience seating area. Their season usually runs from October to May and is focused on the languages, especially the mix of theater and dance. They offer experimental shows as well as traditional ones from around the globe, but direct special attention to young Sicilian theater companies. Such a variety is kept together by a true love and devotion to culture, clearly visible in the aim to make new generations embrace theater, with special Sunday shows for children, seminars and theater workshops.
This large, multi-use stadium has been in operation since 1932 and is home to the U.S. Città di Palermo football team. It holds up to 30,000 spectators and is frequently rented out for other large events, such as concerts, festivals and trade fairs. The stadium is often referred to by its old name, Stadio La Favorita. Upcoming match schedules are available online. Watching the football team play on home turf amidst their staunch supporters is an adrenaline-pumping experience not to be missed for football fans!
One of the rare organizations that deals with the development of Jazz music, The Brass Group is striving toward a splendid goal. With the orchestras consisting of talented musicians, trained and conducted by the best in the business, one is guaranteed pure soulful melodies to drown in. Palermo has achieved immense recognition as a music hub, owing to this the works of the organization. So if your feeling a jazz calling while in Palermo, visit this place for rapturous melodies.
Teatro Carlo Magno, directed by the family Mancuso, aims to preserve the theatrical tradition of the Sicilian string puppet. The theater organizes shows and classes throughout the year, mainly performing stories from classical fiction. A hidden gem of Palermo, this theater shines the spotlight on an ancient tradition that is slowly dying out. For a glimpse of Sicilian culture of yore, Teatro Carlo Magno is an excellent choice for children and adults.
This theater, Italy's largest, has undergone one of the most tumultuous constructions ever. It also claims to have the biggest stage in the world. Before its opening in 1897, the patrons had waited 20 years for the theater to open its doors, suffering through corruption and building delays. Again in 1973, it was closed for 23 years due to political in-fighting and corruption which delayed the intended restoration. Nowadays its home to some of the most spectacular theater, concert, and opera productions in the country featuring works from Verdi, Tchaikovsky, and Puccini.
The historic building of Palazzo Branciforte, located in Palermo, was renovated and made accessible to the public in 2012. A palace from the earlier century, this building is a very unique one as it is a host to an Italian collection ranging from history, archaeology, numismatics, sculpture, literature and art. Within the facility there is a museum (very important from the aspect of 20th-century culture and history) and an exhibition space (among the most beautiful within the palace due to its classic wooden shelves, staircases and boxes). Get mesmerized by the maze-like structure and the light and shadow specifics inside the palace. It also has a gigantic library with over 50,000 volumes of books, periodicals, journals, encyclopedias, dictionaries and a lot more. Most of the volumes cannot be found anywhere else in the city. There's also a fine restaurant, cafeteria and a cooking school inside the building. The building boasts of a magnificent Italian architecture which is retained even after the restoration. Do visit Palazzo Branciforte to know about the rich Italian history of Palermo!
The Teatro Savio is a small theater showcasing classic as well as contemporary productions, cabaret, musicals and opera. The excellent ambiance, fine acoustic capabilities and entertaining line up of very talented stage artists make this place quite popular with the art and theatre loving people of the city. The venue is also used to stage comedies, concerts, fund raisers and even local community events. Renowned performers here include the likes of Massimo Spata, Questi Fantasmi and Yoseph. Check website for the list of upcoming schedules and booking information.
In the middle part of the magnificent Via Roma, one will see the church called St. Antonio Abate and right in front of it, next to the elegant neoclassical facade of Palazzo Arezzo, stands the beautiful Teatro Biondo. Founded in 1903 when Palermo was experiencing a cultural revival, Teatro Biondo was Palermo's first opera house, also hosting circus performances. Today, the theater hosts mostly plays and many of Italy's most famous actors and best theater companies have graced Biondo's stage.