The Teatro Fraschini is one of the most significant 18th century examples of an “Italian-style theatre”, commissioned by four patricians from Pavia who entrusted the project to Antonio Galli from Bibiena (1700-1774), exponent of an illustrious family of architect-set designers. Construction started in 1771 and the theatre was inaugurated, after only two years from being commissioned, with the opera “Demetrio” by Giuseppe Mjsliveczek, libretto by Pietro Metastasio. The Town Hall purchased the Theatre in November 1869, naming it after a famous Verdi tenor from Pavia, Gaetano Fraschini, who was still alive at the time of the dedication. Having remained miraculously intact since its origins and acoustically perfect, it returned to its former glory in 1993 after a careful restoration. An Italian-style theatre, with four boxes topped by a gallery. The plan of the hall is bell-shaped with a soundboard under the parterre. The large ceiling recalls a decoration by Achille Savoja from Pavia, which was replaced at the beginning of the 20th century by a fresco by the Milanese artist Osvaldo Bignami. Among the famous guests, Giuseppina de Beauharnais consort of Napoleon I, Emperor Francis I and distinguished composers and performers such as Pietro Mascagni, Niccolò Paganini, Arturo Toscanini. Since 2003 it has been known as the Theatre of Tradition. The Teatro Fraschini is part of the OperaLombardia circuit and organizes opera and theatrical seasons that include prose, dance, concerts. It organizes a theatre school in collaboration with the University of Pavia. A specific programming for students includes special projects such as Opera Tomorrow, the day of remembrance, guided tours.
Teatro Fraschini
C.so Strada Nuova 136 – Pavia
Tel. 0382-371214
biglietteria@teatrofraschini.org
