Teatro-cine Carolina Coronado

The Teatro-Cine Carolina Coronado in Almendralejo, Spain, stands as a testament to the cultural and historical richness of this charming town in the heart of Extremadura. Named after the illustrious 19th-century poetess Carolina Coronado, the theater is a beacon of artistic and architectural splendor, inviting visitors to step back in time and immerse themselves in the grandeur of early 20th-century entertainment venues.

A Tribute to Carolina Coronado

Carolina Coronado Romero de Tejada, born on December 12, 1820, in Almendralejo, was a prominent figure in Spanish literature, often referred to as the female Bécquer. Her literary prowess and contributions to the Romantic movement earned her a lasting legacy, celebrated by her hometown through the naming of this grand theater. The Teatro-Cine Carolina Coronado is not just a building; it is a monument to her memory and a symbol of the town's rich cultural heritage.

The Birth of a Cultural Icon

The early 20th century was a period of significant growth and prosperity for Almendralejo. The town experienced a demographic boom and a surge in both primary and secondary production. This newfound wealth and vibrancy necessitated the creation of cultural and recreational spaces. Thus, in 1916, the Teatro-Cine Carolina Coronado was constructed, following the establishment of other notable landmarks such as the Plaza de Toros in 1834, the Círculo Mercantil in 1874, and the Obrero Extremeño in 1895.

Architectural Grandeur

The theater's design was ambitious, reflecting the grandeur of the Italian-style theaters popular in the 19th century. With a seating capacity of 1,700, it rivaled even the Teatro Real in Madrid, which could accommodate 1,800 spectators. The use of iron and steel not only provided structural support but also added to the decorative elements of the building. The dome, constructed of steel, and the cast iron columns supporting the balconies and boxes, highlighted the innovative use of these materials in early 20th-century architecture.

One of the most striking features of the theater was its height. From the floor of the stalls to the ceiling, the height reached an impressive 15 meters, creating a sense of majesty and openness. The wooden and cast iron seats in the stalls were designed to be removable, allowing the space to be used for various events, including dances and carnivals.

Controversies and Modifications

The construction of the theater was not without its challenges. Several preliminary designs were submitted, and the project was ultimately awarded to the Portuguese architect A. Coffino, about whom little is known except that he had a studio in Lisbon. The promoter, Pedro González Torres, was critical of the initial design, leading to modifications, particularly in the seating capacity and the design of the boxes. These changes were approved by the provincial architect Ventura Vaca.

In 1971, the theater underwent a significant transformation to accommodate its new role as a cinema. This renovation, carried out by architect J. Mancera Martínez, involved lowering the ceiling height with a false plaster ceiling, which unfortunately obscured the original paintings by Adelardo Covarsí. The boxes were also removed, significantly altering the theater's original design and reducing its prestige as a theatrical venue.

Restoration and Revival

After more than 30 years, a major restoration project was undertaken in 2003 to return the building to its former glory as a theater. The restoration aimed to recover the original paintings by Adelardo Covarsí, which had been hidden for decades. Covarsí, known for his costumbrista style, abandoned his usual themes in favor of mythology for the theater's decoration. His works, including those in the foyer, the Noble Hall, the proscenium arch, and the ceiling of the main hall, were meticulously restored, with the Junta de Extremadura investing approximately €120,000 in the project.

The restoration also included the reconstruction of the two tiers of balconies, the renovation of dressing rooms and side walls, and the installation of modern amenities such as plumbing and fire detection and suppression systems. The seating was updated to provide more comfort, with the new seats designed to resemble the original ones but made from wood and fabric instead of iron.

A Cultural Landmark

In recognition of its historical and cultural significance, the Teatro-Cine Carolina Coronado was declared a Bien de Interés Cultural (Asset of Cultural Interest) with the category of monument on September 5, 1995. Today, it stands as a vibrant cultural hub, hosting a variety of performances and events that continue to enrich the cultural life of Almendralejo.

Visitors to Almendralejo should not miss the opportunity to experience the Teatro-Cine Carolina Coronado. Whether attending a performance or simply admiring its architectural beauty, this historic theater offers a glimpse into the town's rich cultural heritage and the enduring legacy of one of Spain's most celebrated poetesses.