Teatro Infanta Isabel

Teatro Infanta Isabel is a historic theatre in central Madrid, tucked away on Calle del Barquillo, within Madrid's Justicia district, just steps from the lively Chueca neighbourhood and Alonso Martínez square. For more than a century the venue has held a firm place on Madrid's theatre scene, drawing audiences for both classic Spanish plays and contemporary comedy.

How did the building become a theatre?

The building on Barquillo street didn't start out as a theatre. In the early twentieth century it operated as a cinema, screening films alongside variety shows. It wasn't until spring 1913 that the venue was converted into a full theatre and took the name Teatro Infanta Isabel, honouring Infanta Isabel de Borbón, daughter of Queen Isabella II. The name hasn't stayed constant throughout its history: between 1931 and 1938, during Spain's Second Republic, it operated as Teatro María Isabel, and during the Spanish Civil War, from 1938 to 1939, it was renamed Ascaso. After the war ended, the historic name Teatro Infanta Isabel was restored and has remained ever since.

Where exactly is it located?

The theatre sits in the Justicia district, right in the heart of Madrid, surrounded by residential buildings dating from the turn of the twentieth century. It's an easy stop for visitors exploring the city centre — the surrounding streets are full of restaurants, cafés and shops, and both Gran Vía and Alonso Martínez square are within easy walking distance.

What kind of shows does it stage?

Over the decades, the stage has hosted works by leading Spanish playwrights, among them Miguel Mihura, Enrique Jardiel Poncela and Jacinto Benavente — names that shaped the history of Spanish comic theatre. That tradition continues today: the current programme focuses on comedy, mixing Spanish classics with well-known titles from the international theatre repertoire.

How many seats does the theatre have?

The auditorium holds close to 620 seats, making Teatro Infanta Isabel a mid-sized Madrid venue — intimate enough to keep audiences close to the stage, yet large enough to regularly host well-known productions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Teatro Infanta Isabel located? The theatre stands on Calle del Barquillo, within Madrid's Justicia district.

Where does the theatre's name come from? It's named after Infanta Isabel de Borbón. The venue took this name in 1913, though it operated under different names at points during the twentieth century — Teatro María Isabel (1931–1938) and Ascaso (1938–1939).

How many seats are in the auditorium? The theatre seats close to 620 people.

What kind of programme can visitors expect? The theatre specialises in comedy, staging both Spanish classics and recognised international titles.

Was the building always a theatre? No — it originally opened as a cinema and was only converted into a theatre in 1913.