7 Best Performing Arts Venues in Centro, São Paulo

Despite being housed in a magnificent old train station, Sala São Paulo is one of the most modern concert halls for classical music in Latin America. It's home to the São Paulo Symphony Orchestra. (OSESP).

The City Ballet, São Paulo's official dance company, has performed for many years at the magnificent Theatro Municipal.

The ballet performs contemporary works incorporating Brazilian pop and bossa nova music. Founded in 1971 during Brazil's period of dictatorship, the company made its name performing dances with political and social justice themes.

Titles already out of other theaters and independent openings show for discounted prices at CineSESC. The screen is visible from the snack bar.

Brazilian, European, and other nonblockbuster films are shown at the Espaço Augusta, with sessions every day.

The theater was closed for many years (since there was a fire in 2008) and experienced an immense and complete renovation and restructuring. It was reopened in August 2024, with an investment of over R$200 million (about $40 million). New programs, educational areas, a restaurant, a café, and a bookstore will keep this important architectural landmark of São Paulo lively all day long. Avoid walking from the metro stop at night.

Inspired by the Paris Opéra, the Municipal Theater was built between 1903 and 1911 with art nouveau elements. Hamlet was the first play presented, and the house went on to host such luminaries as Isadora Duncan in 1916 and Anna Pavlova in 1919. Plays and operas are still staged here; local newspapers, as well as the theater's website, have schedules and information on how to get tickets. The auditorium, resplendent with gold leaf, moss-green velvet, marble, and mirrors, has 1,500 seats and is usually open only to those attending cultural events, although prearranged visits are also available. A museum dedicated to the theater's history is located close by at Praça das Artes. Call the theater to arrange a free guided tour in English. You can also enjoy a brunch in the theater's golden hall.