The main opera house in Venice perished in a fire in 1774, but later it was reconstructed and dubbed Teatro La Fenice. In other words, the “Phoenix Theatre”, after the mystical bird that bursts into flames and is reborn time and time again from the ashes. After two more cycles of busting up in flames, the theatre was finally rebuilt in 2003, based on the original, to become the theatre that Venicians know and love today.

The theatre is a masterpiece of architecture with a seating capacity of one thousand and outstanding acoustics. Ornately decorated golden viewing boxes line the walls, and the wall is painted with a beautiful light blue frescoe with a large chandelier glittering in the centre. Maroon seats, a dark brown stage and tasteful warm lighting complete the elegant and sophisticated vibe of the theatre that screams opulence and luxury. Since its foundation, the theatre has been the host to the premiers of works by Rossini, Bellini, Donizetti, Verdi and countless more acclaimed directors. More contemporary works such has The Turn of the Screw by Britten, The Fire Angel by Prokofiev, Intolerance by Nono, Hyperion by Maderna and recently Entführung im Konzertsaal by Kagel have been revealed to the world for the very first time here. The performances are backed by an impressive orchestra with 66 elements and a 98 strong choir, the success of which has attracted people from all corners of the world.