It was a “Society of Box Owners” that entrusted the architect Cesare Costa with the task of erecting a new theatre on the impressive main square, the Piazza dei Martiri. Contrary to the inscription over the portico, the theatre became the property of the city already before the inauguration. It has been entirely preserved since then.
Rumors say, the half naked women on the fire curtain, were the wives of the members of the society of box owner, creating a scandal at opening night.
The hall, stage and dressing rooms are beautifully preserved.
The earthquake of 2011 did some damaged, but everything was perfectly restored.
Only in the wooden beams that hold up the dome above the audience needed some special treatment.
They are reinforced in a "flexible" way, so that will withstand future earthquakes better.
A real gem is found above this dome: a big attic, used for rehearsals and scenic painting.
Graffiti made by the artists up to the 19th century can be found here.
Here is also the hatch trough which the big chandelier can be hoisted.
The stage tower is completely white, making it a nice space to work in.
The wheels are not the original ones, bur made new for this theatre.
To do this quickly, you need to have the ropes ready at the right lengths of course.
When I was there, visit was only on appointment.
Since the director only spoke Italian, he was so kind to also invite an interpretor from the touristic office.
Next door is the remains of a castle, but we didn't visit that.
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