On Avenue Hassan II in Marrakech, the Royal Theatre is a cultural venue still undergoing restoration. Its open-air amphitheatre is the main part visitors can explore, with a doorkeeper sometimes showing people around the site. Architect Charles Boccara began the project in the 1970s, drawing on Roman forms for details such as the columns and cupola. The theatre was inaugurated in 2001 and hosts performances including concerts, ballets and shows. Check the programme before you go, as performances may be in Arabic or French.
The theatre project
The Royal Theatre was begun in the 1970s by Tunisian architect Charles Boccara. Roman architecture informed its design, including the columns and imposing cupola. The venue was inaugurated in 2001, but the project remains unfinished and restoration is ongoing.
The site combines a large open-air amphitheatre with an indoor opera house. The amphitheatre is the part visitors can explore; the interior was never completed.
Performances at the Royal Theatre
The 1,200-seat amphitheatre hosts outdoor concerts, ballets and other shows. The theatre’s programme also includes plays, opera and live music. Check the schedule before visiting if you hope to attend an event. Some performances are in Arabic or French.
FAQ
Is the Royal Theatre in Marrakech open to visitors?
Visitors can explore the site while restoration is underway. The doorkeeper may also show visitors around.
What can you see at the Royal Theatre?
The open-air amphitheatre is the main area visitors can explore. Look for the columns and cupola in Boccara’s Roman-inspired design.
What performances are held at the Royal Theatre?
The venue hosts concerts, ballets, plays, opera and live music. Some performances are in Arabic or French, so check the programme.
