In a narrow street to the west of the Baroque city of Valletta stands one of the oldest theatres in Europe. It is certainly the oldest theatre in the Commonwealth. To this day, it is still, and will continue to be, a living, working theatre. Teatru Manoel was built in 1731, in just one calendar year, by the Portuguese Grand Master Antonio Manoel de Vilhena. De Vilhena was so personally involved in its conception and construction that it was paid for out of his own pocket.
Embellished over the centuries, this theatre is a true architectural gem. Today, the theatre is one of Malta’s foremost performing spaces, offering a wide range of productions including opera, ballet, contemporary dance, music, children’s performances and drama. Teatru Manoel’s visitors can enjoy the best of local talent and exciting foreign productions, take the guided tour to get a glimpse of the theatre’s history, visit the shop and enjoy a glass of wine in our courtyard. The theatre aspires to be accessible to all and offer unique and vibrant theatrical experiences.
