The city of Oran, along the Mediterranean in western Algeria, boasts a remarkable story — ruled by Arab and Berber dynasties, the Spanish, the Ottomans, and the French, before Algerian independence in 1962. As you walk through Oran today, the buildings around you reflect this rich history. Fort Santa Cruz is an imposing stronghold built by the Ottomans and the Spanish in the 1600s. Oran’s public library, formerly a Catholic church, has a facade of mosaics with portraits of Jesus and the four Gospels. And, in the city center, the theater reflects its artistic nature with beautifully carved stone and a striking interior.
The decor inside the Regional Theater of Oran deserves special attention and is the subject of today’s post. Join me on a personal tour of the theater, from its grand entrance into the richly decorated lobby, and on into the main theater.
A Little History Before We Begin
The Regional Theater of Oran has gone by many names since its inauguration in 1907. Initially called the Municipal Opera of Oran, it hosted the opera Faust as its first performance. The venue quickly grew in popularity and stature, featuring regular operas, concerts and ballets. After independence, the building became the Algerian National Theater of Oran, until 1972 when it adopted the full name it holds today, the Abdelkader Alloula Regional Theater of Oran. The new name proudly reflects the current repertoire, which includes fewer operas and more plays and concerts. In addition, it honors a star of Algerian theater, Abdelkader Alloula.
Abdelkader Alloula (1939-1994) was a prolific playwright and director, and a prominent member of the theater company in Oran. Born in Ghazaouet in far western Algeria, he grew up in Oran and later helped found the National Theater, eventually becoming its director. Alloula acted in plays and on television, and was well known for his writing and directorial skill. He penned a number of plays set in Algeria and written in colloquial Arabic, and garnered a popular following with his portrayals of the working class and the struggles of modern life.
Let’s Enter the Theater
The decor inside the theater is exquisite. The delicate craftsmanship and detailed design choices hit you as soon as you enter the building. Look at the pictures below — the fine mosaic tilework on the floors, the smooth marble pillars that decorate the lobby, and the ornate sconces that hang on the walls. Vibrant art pieces brighten the rooms even further. Murals cover the ceiling, while tall paintings near the stairs pay tribute to the genres of music and theater. The names of prominent European composers and playwrights decorate the border of each painting. Names like Moliere, Victor Hugo, Sophocles, Wagner, Rossini, and others.
Inside the main theater, balconies circle the room, rising tall above the vibrant red seats on the main floor. Delicate carvings of wreathes and ivy twirl along the balconies and loop in a huge arch above the stage. As you can see below, the main hall glistens in its majesty and grandeur, the perfect setting for the performances that happen inside.
What Next?
If you visit Algeria, experience the decor of the Regional Theater of Oran in person by attending one of their concerts or performances. Recent shows include an Andalusian orchestra, the Algerian singer Lila Borsali, the Italian singer Tiziana “Tosca” Donati, plays by Algerian and Tunisian artists, and puppet shows for children. Consult the theater’s Facebook page for the latest information on upcoming events.
Then celebrate local theater where you live! When you attend a performance, pause a moment to enjoy the decor around you. Think about the decisions made by the building’s designers and architects. Look at the flooring, the light fixtures, the curves of the ceiling and doors, and the paintings and decorations on the walls. How does this decor enhance the building and the art that takes place inside it?
Lastly, don’t forget to look at the other places we’ve profiled here on the blog. We’ve used six buildings to explore the history of Marrakesh, visited a set of stunning Coptic monasteries outside of Cairo, wandered through Roman ruins in Jordan, and experienced the natural beauty of Fujairah in the United Arab Emirates. Take a look!
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