In the heart of Rome, just steps from the Vatican, lies a theatrical gem with a vintage soul. First a cinema and then a theater, in 1980 it was renovated by actress Ileana Ghione–whose name it is named after. Today it is a staple for fans of classical operas, modern comedies and even atmospheric concerts.
Historical Context of the Ghione Theater
Teatro Ghione traces its origins back to the 1930s, when it was known as Teatro Rosa. It was later converted into a movie theater until, in 1980, actress Ileana Ghione restored it to its original function, renovating it and adding dressing rooms, stalls, gallery, and corridors. Ileana was its director until 2005. To this day, the Ghione Theater is decorated in Victorian style, with a vintage touch given by velvets and crystal chandeliers, giving it a refined and majestic air.
What can you do at the ghione theater?
Teatro Ghione is a venue designed as much for lovers of classical plays as for fans of modern comedies. From staging timeless classics such as the Iliad to musical stories dedicated to great icons such as the Beatles, Teatro Ghione’s program is varied and never ceases to amaze.
Not only plays: in fact, the elegant theater is also the setting for the evocative Candlelight concerts. From Vivaldi ‘sThe Four Seasons to classical reinterpretations of great pop and rock artists such as Coldplay or Vasco Rossi, Teatro Ghione offers a wide-ranging and engaging program that, illuminated by thousands of candles, will thrill everyone.
Frquently asked question
1. Is it possible to rent the Ghione Theater?
Teatro Ghione also offers a rental service of the entire space for independent theater productions. This service thus allows emerging artists and theater companies the opportunity to bring their ideas to life on a renowned stage in the center of Rome. In addition, it is possible to rent just a few separate rooms for private events, such as conferences or award ceremonies.
2. Is the Albertazzi Library open to the public?
Inside Rome’s Teatro Ghione is the Giorgio Albertazzi Library, a space dedicated to reading that holds the collection of books donated by the famous actor. Open to the public, it offers theater and culture lovers the opportunity to explore its precious literary heritage.
3. What does the virtual tour of Teatro Ghione consist of?
The virtual tour of Teatro Ghione allows people to visit the interior spaces of the theater without having to physically go there. The interactive tour offers a detailed overview of the facility, with a visit to the stalls, stage, foyer and the Giorgio Albertazzi Library. To access the virtual tour, simply visit the “Rent Theater” section on the official Ghione Theater website.
How to reach Teatro Ghione
Located in the Prati area, in a central location in Rome, the Theater can be reached either by public transportation or by car. By bus, the nearest bus stops are Crocifisso/Porta Fabbrica (2-minute walk), Cavalleggeri/Gregorio VII (4-minute walk), and Aurelia/Bonifacio VIII (4-minute walk), and the lines that include these stops in their route are: 190F, 46, 64, 916F, 62, 34, 98, N98, 881, N46, and FL3 BUS. In altrenative to buses, the nearest subway stop is Ottaviano.
For those who prefer to travel by car, there are several paid parking lots available within a few minutes’ walk from the theater, such as the parking lot in the St. Peter’s Area or the Bonifacio Garage.
Nearby Locations
Thanks to its central location, some of Rome’s most important piazzas and monuments are easily reached from Teatro Ghione. The Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museums are a fifteen-minute walk from the theater, while Piazza Navona is about a 25-minute walk.
If you’re in the neighborhood, don’t forget to add Teatro Ghione to your list of places to see in Rome, and perhaps attend one of the magical concerts for a special evening.