Located in the heart of Macerata, overlooking Piazza della Libertà, the Lauro Rossi Theatre is one of the most elegant historic theatres in the Marche region. Intimate and harmonious, it stands out for its cosy atmosphere, which makes every performance particularly captivating.
A theatre born out of the city
Construction of the theatre began in 1765 on the initiative of a group of Macerata nobles, known as the 'Nobili Condomini', who promoted the creation of a new public space for the city. The project was entrusted to the architect Antonio Galli Bibiena, one of the leading figures in 18th-century theatre architecture, and was later revised by Cosimo Morelli. Opened in 1774 with a performance of Pasquale Anfossi's opera Olimpiade, the theatre was named after the Macerata-born composer Lauro Rossi in 1884.
The building: shape and details
Inside, the theatre is notable for its distinctive bell-shaped layout, which creates a harmonious and intimate space. The auditorium is laid out in the Italian style, with three tiers of boxes and a gallery, resulting in a modest capacity that encourages a direct connection between the audience and the stage. Stucco, polychrome decorations and faux marble in shades of green, gold and blue help to create an elegant and bright space. One feature that often comes as a surprise is that many surfaces that look like marble are actually made of decorated wood, which has been worked to achieve the same visual effect.
A theatre to experience
Over the years, the theatre has undergone several restoration projects, which have preserved its original features and restored its rich 18th-century décor. Today, the Lauro Rossi Theatre hosts a varied programme of drama, music and dance, and continues to play a central role in the city's cultural life. When there are no performances on, it is possible to visit the theatre on organised tours, which allow you to enter the various spaces and closely examine its architectural details.