An old image of Teatro Campoamor’s exterior in its glory days before the theatre was destroyed by fire

On the corner of Industria and San José streets in central Havana lies the ruins of a once grand theatre, Teatro Compoamor. Destroyed by fire decades ago, the theatre appears off limits. However, payment of a fee facilitates access.

Teatro Campoamor’s contemporary exterior with trees growing out of it

This was Rocío and my second theatre experience on our first full day in Cuba after earlier seeing Plácido Domingo enter the nearby Great Theatre. We visited Teatro Campoamor with Japanese tourist Minami who we met at Crepe Sayu.

Vegetation covers Teatro Campoamor’s stage as viewed from the auditorium

Once in, we explored the ruins, walking around the auditorium and climbing stairs to the balconies. Rubble and rubbish lay strewn and plants grew where moisture, dirt and light combined. The theatre also appeared to have been used for informal accommodation.

Standing on Teatro Campoamor’s upper stage-right side balcony; note the wrecked roof allowing rain and light for the plants

Some of the façades impressed including the theatrical mask in this story’s feature image.

Rubble including an old bottle in Teatro Campoamor

Teatro Campoamor’s stairs on the stage-left side led to picturesque views of the landmark El Capitolio building.

Teatro Campoamor provides a great view of the nearby El Capitolio building

Who knows how long the shell of Teatro Campoamor remains until either it collapses, is demolished or, wistfully, is restored to its former glory.