It is the oldest concert hall in the island. Follow me through this journey in time.
I have had many names. In the beginning was Dona Maria Pia. With the establishment of the republic they rename me to Funchalense , imagine! As if that was not enough again they decided to change my identity to Manuel de Arriaga. Finally it was decided, Baltazar Dias Theatre, named after a blind playwright born in this island! It is not unlikely that I was named after someone who to be alive could never admire my long and white facade? The day that the last retouching was applied, I cannot say for sure, the year was 1887, in the temperate month of July. I have added a whole of 124 years of existence well preserved, who ever looks at me gives says I only look seventy years old. I was privileged. But, come, do not be shy!
Come then, thru the archway that leads to the main hall, filled with faces of other times, artists who came here and left their mark on my white walls. The access to the audience is a narrow walkway, is on purpose, so you never know what to expect. Do not fear the creaking of my boards, is the age you know? Sudden shadows deceives at first, then be bathed by the light of my womb, one hundred fifty seats face the stage, the altar of the artists as I like to call it. Look around! Small insuls, as I heard someone whisper, circle the entire space, accessible by short flights of stairs with iron railings. On top, the cherubim peeking through glass flowers, happy, gay and at the same time curious to what is happening deep inside. Despite my ripe age, my acoustics is the best. Unblemished. I still remember fondly my first concert, sponsored by the Music Association of the 25th of January. It was a triumphant inauguration, the house almost came down, such was the amount of people and curious who graced me with their visit. Of course I stand tall bravely, I was younger. Popped up on the cover of the daily news of the day, it quote that I was lovely. Not to brag, but despite my rigid figure and old appearance who knows me well tell me that I am a cozy theater. During this hundred years of existence for me has echoed great voices of national and international reputation, have felt the most beautiful melodies ever played and heard the most joyous and tragic texts ever written. I was built to be as a temple of commotion. Around here thru me audiences have already wept, laughed and be touched to the core. It is my fate, my destiny. I welcome all and favor none. Therefore, I'll welcome you with open arms, I hope for another century at least. For now, the curtain falls, and this show is ending. Until one day, but be back often!
