Manaus Opera House
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The Amazon Theater is one of the most important monuments left by the exhilarating rubber boom period. It was preserved as a national partimony in 1965, and will celebrate its centenary in 1996, in perfect condition after a thorough renovation that left it in its original colors and details. The architecture is eclectic and neo-classic with material and artists brought in from Europe. On the outside of the building, the dome is covered with 36,000 decorated ceramic tiles painted in the colors of the national flag. In the shape of a harp, the central nave can seat 640 in the auditorium and the 3 floors with box seats. Toward the back, the stage curtain projects the painting "Meeting of the Waters"; originally done in Paris by Crispim do Amaral. This curtain rises vertically so as not to damage the painting. On the ceiling are painted scenes depicting music, dance, drama, and a homage to Carlos Gomes. The central gold chandelier descends to the level of the seats for cleaning purposes and changing light bulbs. Above this chandelier, in the middle of the roof, there is a painting imitating the view of someone standing beneath the Eiffel Tower. The Noble Room was decorated by Domenico de Angelis and contains paintings suchs the one entitled 'Guarani". The floor of this room is made of wood fitted together without the use of nails or glue. The theater also contains a small museum with a rich history. Items on display include original building plans, rare porcelain, and even objects from artists who performed there.
This article was written by Jill Siegel Brazilian Travel Specialist - Consultant Jsananda@aol.com It was found in the newsgroup SOC.CULTURE.BRAZIL
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