National Theatre Panama
A historic 1908 theatre in Casco Viejo, Panama City, renowned for its ornate frescoed ceiling and live arts.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Experience live arts
National Theatre Panama
Best Time
Experience live arts
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 1908 theatre in Casco Viejo, Panama City, renowned for its ornate frescoed ceiling and live arts.
"A beautiful and historic theater, a must-see item on your next trip to Panama."
🎯 Book Ahead to Skip Lines
Buying tickets online saves time and hassle.
🪑 Legroom Varies
Consider orchestra or mezzanine front rows for more legroom.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ornate Frescoed Ceiling
Auditorium
Marvel at the breathtaking ceiling painted by Roberto Lewis, a true masterpiece of art and history.
Historic Architecture
Exterior and Interior
Immerse yourself in the grandeur of this 1908 building, a significant cultural landmark in Casco Viejo.
Live Performances
Main Stage
Experience plays, music, and dance performances in an intimate and charming setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Manage Expectations for a Historic Gem
Book Tickets in Advance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
National theater seating question….
🎯 Book Ahead to Skip Lines
Buying tickets online saves time and hassle.
🪑 Legroom Varies
Consider orchestra or mezzanine front rows for more legroom.
🎭 Check Performance Schedule
See what plays, music, or dance events are on during your visit.
📸 Admire the Ceiling
Don't miss the stunning frescoed ceiling by Roberto Lewis.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Ahead to Skip Lines
Buying tickets online saves time and hassle.
🪑 Legroom Varies
Consider orchestra or mezzanine front rows for more legroom.
🎭 Check Performance Schedule
See what plays, music, or dance events are on during your visit.
📸 Admire the Ceiling
Don't miss the stunning frescoed ceiling by Roberto Lewis.
🗣️ Spanish Skills Helpful
While staff are kind, basic Spanish aids interaction.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the National Theatre of Panama to be a beautiful and historic venue, particularly praising its ornate frescoed ceiling by Roberto Lewis. While some note a lack of modern amenities like an orchestra pit, the kindness of staff and the quality of performances like plays and dance are frequently highlighted as positive aspects, making it a worthwhile cultural experience in Casco Viejo.
"How much you enjoy the teatro nacional will depend on your expectation. Panama City does not have a fine arts culture, not yet. There is no better illustration of this than its national theater having walls poorly wallpapered to look like pink marble. There is no orchestra pit. I assume the music for its upcoming production of Swan Lake will be electronically pumped through speakers? I could go on, but there is also a lot of good here. The performance of Cristo Quijote Tratado was excellent. The people working at the theater were kind to me even though I struggle with Spanish and often have to use my phone to translate. I am very glad that I visited here and I encourage you to do the same if there is a performance happening that you are interested in. Just keep in mind that this is not Theatre national de Chaillot or the Royal National Theater."
steve sherman
"A beautiful and historic theater. Going to see a play or other performce is surely a must-see item on your next trip to Panama. The play performance we saw was amazing and the venue is stunning. Go see a show at the National Theatre of Panamá."
Jason W.
"Small and cosy theater with all side seatings arranged in boxes for the dance performance of Giselle. It is a neat place, with good access to amenities. Buying tickets in advance on the web saves a lot of hassle of queuing up and waiting in line"
Michel Poulina
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The National Theatre is located in the heart of Casco Viejo, Panama City's historic district. It's easily accessible by taxi or ride-sharing services. If you're exploring Casco Viejo on foot, it's a pleasant walk from most points within the old city.
Parking in Casco Viejo can be challenging due to its narrow streets. It's often best to use taxis or ride-sharing services, or park in a designated public parking lot a short walk away.
Yes, if your hotel is located within Casco Viejo, walking to the National Theatre is a convenient and enjoyable option. The historic district is very walkable.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased online through the National Theatre's official website or at the box office. Booking in advance is highly recommended to avoid queues and secure good seats.
Ticket prices vary depending on the performance and seating. It's best to check the official website for current pricing for specific shows.
The theatre's operating hours are typically tied to performance schedules. The box office may have specific hours for ticket sales. It's advisable to check their website for the most up-to-date information.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or group bookings, depending on the performance. Inquire at the box office or check the theatre's website for details.
While it might be possible to purchase tickets on the day of the performance, it's not guaranteed, especially for popular shows. Booking in advance is the safest bet.
🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience
The theatre has orchestra and mezzanine seating, with some side boxes. For better legroom, consider the front rows of the orchestra or mezzanine.
Information on accessibility can be limited. It's best to contact the theatre directly to inquire about specific needs and available facilities.
The theatre hosts a variety of cultural events, including plays, musical performances, ballets, and other dance productions.
Based on reviews, the National Theatre does not appear to have a traditional orchestra pit, meaning music might be amplified.
While there isn't a strict formal dress code, smart casual attire is generally appropriate for attending a performance at the National Theatre.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography during performances is usually prohibited to avoid disturbing the audience and performers. You may be able to take photos of the interior architecture before or after a show, but it's best to check with staff.
The ornate frescoed ceiling is a must-photograph. The historic architecture of the building itself also makes for great shots, especially the exterior.
Yes, the frescoed ceiling by Roberto Lewis is a major highlight and a popular subject for photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When choosing seats, consider options in the orchestra or front mezzanine for better visibility. Ensure the performance's duration and content are suitable for your children's attention spans. Purchasing tickets in advance is crucial to avoid long waits, which can be challenging with younger children.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider attending a performance that aligns with your budget and interests. The historic ambiance and the chance to see the stunning frescoed ceiling are significant value additions. Remember that transportation costs to Casco Viejo should also be factored in, though it's generally accessible via affordable public transport or ride-sharing.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistic Legacy of Roberto Lewis
Experiencing the theatre means appreciating this artistic detail as much as the performance itself. The combination of live arts and historical artistry creates a unique atmosphere. While some reviews mention the theatre's amenities might not match international standards, the presence of Lewis's masterpiece is consistently highlighted as a major draw. It's a testament to Panama's commitment to preserving its cultural landmarks and artistic achievements.
Navigating Seating and Comfort
It's also worth noting that sitting too close to the stage might not always be ideal for every performance, as it can sometimes detract from the overall enjoyment. Travelers have shared that while the theatre is a charming and historic venue, it lacks certain modern amenities like a dedicated orchestra pit, which might affect the sound experience for musical performances.
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