Theater

Argentines, especially porteños, are avid theater goers. The tradition dates from late colonial times, when creation of the Viceroyalty of the River Plate gave the capital a certain legitimacy and pretensions, at least, to high culture. Over the 19th century, it developed through institutions like the sainete, a humorous performance dealing with immigrant issues.

Formal theater dates from the late 19th century, thanks to the patronage of the Montevideo-born Podestá family, who built theaters in Buenos Aires [1] and La Plata. Influential early playwrights included Montevideo-born Florencio Sánchez (1875–1910), who wrote sainetes but drew much of his inspiration from Ibsen; Gregorio de Laferrere (1867–1913), who wrote comic plays; and Roberto Payró (1867–1928).

In the days before jet travel, twentieth-century European dramatists such as Federico García Lorca and Jean Cocteau found the Buenos Aires [1] theater scene justified the long voyage across the Atlantic and beyond the Equator. Among Argentina’s best-loved 20th-century performers are comedian Luis Sandrini (1905–1980) and Lola Membrives (1888–1969); the best-known contemporary playwright is Juan Carlos Gené (born 1929). Primarily known for her films, Norma Aleandro (born 1936) is also active as a theater director.

Ranging from vulgar burlesque with elaborate stage shows to Shakespearean and avant-garde drama, the Buenos Aires [1] theater scene is busiest June–August. Avenida Corrientes is the traditional locus of live theater, but it’s worth seeking out “off-Corrientes” alternatives such as La Boca [2]’s imaginative, politically committed Teatro Catalinas Sur.