By Nicole Vindas Zumbado

At the very heart of Costa Rica’s artistic and cultural scene is a place that has been treasured by Costa Ricans for more than a century. There is something truly striking about our National Theatre. Perhaps it is the fact that its architecture is so different from that of any other building in the country; a visual reminder of something you might find in Europe, but still so distinctly Latin American at its core. Perhaps it is its long and fascinating history; a place visited by so many names that are renowned around the world, that it is enough to give any visitor goosebumps.

However, over the past few decades, the National Theatre has lost much of its respect and prestige. Is it because new generations are not as appreciative of such institutions? Is it because technology and streaming services have replaced the feeling of attending a live concert?

My hope for this venue guide is to inform readers, wherever they may be, of a true gem located at the very center of my country; a reminder of a spellbinding place that is worth visiting, but is often, tragically, overlooked.

Background Information

The National Theatre of Costa Rica is located in the capital city of San José, on the 2nd Avenue, between the 3rd and 5th streets. Construction began on January 1891, and took six years to be completed. It was inaugurated on October 19^th, 1897, with a special performance of the famed opera, “Fausto” (Cartín).

One of the most renowned aspects of the National Theatre is its architecture, which was primarily based on European styles found in countries such as Germany and France. Its paintings and sculptures are a mixture of the work of both Costa Rican and foreign artists. The most famous painting in the building, and one of the best-known in the country, is called “Allegory of Coffee and Bananas,” painted by an Italian named Aleardo Villa in 1896 (“El comercio”). This is one of several ceiling murals that can be found throughout the theatre, and was meant to represent the life of traditional Costa Ricans during that time period.

The National Theatre has hosted dozens of important events attended by world-famous individuals. Some of these include U.S. president, John F. Kennedy, back in 1963, as well as President Ronald Reagan in 1982 (Miller).

What to Do

When it comes to visiting the National Theatre, the most recommended option in order to have the complete experience is to attend a live performance. Usually, the theatre hosts productions ranging from concerts, to plays, to dance recitals. However, this has all changed as Costa Rica, like the rest of the world, faces the sanitary crisis of COVID-19. Regretfully, all performances have been canceled until further notice by the Ministry of Health. However, Costa Ricans and tourists alike can still enjoy the theatre’s facilities by making a reservation for a guided tour. Tours are currently available every day of the week, from 9am to 4pm. The cost per person is ¢1,695, which is equal to $2.75. There are reduced fees for the elderly, and children under twelve can go in for free (“Turismo”). Guests can learn more about the history and architecture of the building, while touring its different sections: the lobby, the foyer, and the auditorium itself.

The National Theatre also comes with a wonderful café, Alma de Café, which opened in 2011. Alma de Café specializes in traditional Costa Rican meals and, of course, serves only the best coffee that our country has to offer. It is open from 9am to 7pm on Mondays through Saturdays, and from 9am to 6pm on Sundays (“Café”).

Our National Theatre is a shining example of all of the best aspects of Costa Rica: the talent that can be found inside our nation, our passion for the arts, as well as the warmth and fun-loving nature of the Costa Rican people. In a survey that I conducted earlier this month, I asked the following question: “What are your personal thoughts on the Costa Rican National Theatre?” Some of the answers that I received were the following:

“I think the new generations should appreciate the theatre more for its cultural contribution to our country”

“I believe it is a national symbol that promotes our art and culture”

“It is a monument worth knowing” (Vindas Zumbado)

I was pleasantly surprised by the results of my survey, given that I specifically asked Costa Ricans in their college and teenage years. It is reassuring to know that at least a sector of our young population still admires our National Theatre and recognizes its importance for our country. 

Hopefully, this guide has served to provide some insight into one of the best tourist attractions that our country has to offer. It is very different from what most people expect from Costa Rica, which would be our beaches and rainforests. However, I believe that it represents another distinct facet of Costa Rican life. I cannot wait for the day that the Theatre’s doors fully open again, so that people from all around the world can experience a world-class performance in a world-class institution.

Works Cited

Administrator. “Café.” Teatro Nacional de Costa Rica. Ministerio de Cultura y Juventud. https://www.teatronacional.go.cr/Cafeteria

Administrator. “El comercio y la agricultura de Costa Rica.” Teatro Nacional de Costa Rica. Ministerio de Cultura y Juventud. https://www.teatronacional.go.cr/Galeria/coleccion-detalle/137/el-comercio-y-la-agricultura-de-costa-rica

Administrator. “Turismo y visitas guiadas.” Teatro Nacional de Costa Rica. Ministerio de Cultura y Juventud. https://www.teatronacional.go.cr/Visitenos/turismo

Cartín, Maritza. “Teatro Nacional de C.R., San José, 1851-1900.” Mi Costa Rica de Antaño. June 9^th, 2016. https://micostaricadeantano.com/2016/06/09/teatro-nacional-de-c-r-vista-posterior-desde-calle-5/

Miller, Michael. “The National Theater of Costa Rica, The Nation’s Cultural Treasure.” Q Costa Rica. December 10^th, 2016. https://qcostarica.com/the-national-theater-of-costa-rica-the-nations-cultural-treasure/

Vindas Zumbado, Nicole. “Teatro Nacional.” Survey. May 17^th, 2021.