The Daoiz y Velarde Cultural Space (El Retiro district) has reopened - after the former Daoiz y Velarde barracks, built at the end of the nineteenth century, were fully refurbished - seeking balance between the original architecture and the current functions housed. This new scenic space furthers the decentralisation of culture in the capital.
In October 2022, Madrid City Council and the Teatro Real opera house signed an agreement to launch a new project with the aim of creating a leading cultural and artistic space for children and young people in the city. It offers educational experiences in the performing arts, including opera, dance, theatre, puppets, musical stories, workshops, and other activities for the whole family.
The building, spread over 7700 m2 and four floors, has a large space for cultural events and exhibitions: the Main Auditorium, with a large stage and capacity for 330 seats; Pacífico Room, (a multipurpose room) with 72 seats in retractable stands and a versatile stage space; rehearsal rooms; workshops, and other auxiliary premises.
There are also guided tours run by Teatro Real guides, providing a close-up look at how productions are staged in this cultural and artistic space. Visitors will see what life is like at the Real Teatro de Retiro for its teams of professionals, exploring its facilities from the lobby to the different floors of the building and different performance spaces, as well as the artistic and technical work areas.
These tours run from Wednesday to Sunday, on days and at times when there is no production on at the theatre. Tickets can be purchased from the box office of the Real Teatro de Retiro on the day of the visit for 5 euros (free for children aged five and under).
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Images: © Javier del Real.
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