Teatro Nacional D. Maria II reopens in Lisbon after renovations

The Teatro Nacional D. Maria II in Lisbon is set to reopen its Rossio building following extensive renovation works funded by the Recovery and Resilience Plan. The theater had been closed since early 2023, with the reopening facing several delays from its original 2024 target.

Artistic director Pedro Penim described the reopening as a “historic” moment, noting that renovations of this scale are unlikely to occur again for decades. To mark the return, the institution is hosting a three-day celebration from September 18 to 20, featuring free programming such as videomapping on the facade, DJ sets, and exhibitions commemorating the theater's 180-year history.

The reopening festivities will be headlined by a production of William Shakespeare’s “Macbeth,” directed and translated by Penim. The choice of play holds historical significance, as “Macbeth” was the production being performed on December 2, 1964, when a fire left the theater in ruins. This new production will run in the Sala Garrett through October 31.