National Theatre of Panama

Panama's national theatre opened in 1908 within Casco Viejo, designed by the Italian architect who also worked on the nearby presidential and legislative buildings. Its Renaissance-inspired horseshoe auditorium is decorated with red velvet, gilded balconies and a ceiling fresco by the Panamanian painter Roberto Lewis. Restored several times, it continues to host ballet, opera and concerts. The theatre shares a building with the ministry of culture in the heart of the historic district.