The Regional Theater of Constantine, also known as the Mohamed-Tahar Fergani Theater since December 4, 2017, is an iconic cultural establishment located in the heart of Constantine, Algeria. This theater, which combines history, architecture, and culture, is one of the jewels of Constantine’s heritage.
History
The construction of the building, designed by architect Paul Gon, took place between 1877 and 1883. Initially built as a municipal opera house, the building was transformed into a regional theater by decree no. 73-72 of 13 Rabi’ Al Awwal 1393 (corresponding to April 16, 1973), in accordance with ordinance no. 70-39 of June 12, 1970, establishing the general status of regional theaters.
Architecture
The theater, which covers an area of 1568 m², is built in the rectangular Italian model. The building is made of ashlar stone, and its facades are considered masterpieces of 19th-century classical architecture. The main facade is characterized by:
- A base of rough-hewn stones
- A hall clad with light-colored stone veneer with horizontal recessed joints
- An upper floor with an antique composition, featuring projecting pillars, pedimented windows, balcony balusters, and acroteria
- Allegorical sculptures in niche backgrounds framing the balconies
The auditorium reflects the style of Italian theaters, with its paintings, motifs, sculptures, and decorations. The building also includes a grand marble staircase and a stage cage designed according to the traditional system of the first theaters built in the world.
Capacity and Attendance
The theater can accommodate up to 600 spectators in its boxes and galleries. It receives about 53,000 spectators annually.
Name Change
On December 4, 2017, the theater was renamed in honor of Mohamed-Tahar Fergani (1928-2016), a famous malouf singer from Constantine.
The Regional Theater of Constantine, also known as the Mohamed-Tahar Fergani Theater since December 4, 2017, is an iconic cultural establishment located in the heart of Constantine, Algeria. This theater, which combines history, architecture, and culture, is one of the jewels of Constantine’s heritage.
History
The construction of the building, designed by architect Paul Gon, took place between 1877 and 1883. Initially built as a municipal opera house, the building was transformed into a regional theater by decree no. 73-72 of 13 Rabi’ Al Awwal 1393 (corresponding to April 16, 1973), in accordance with ordinance no. 70-39 of June 12, 1970, establishing the general status of regional theaters.
Architecture
The theater, which covers an area of 1568 m², is built in the rectangular Italian model. The building is made of ashlar stone, and its facades are considered masterpieces of 19th-century classical architecture. The main facade is characterized by:
- A base of rough-hewn stones
- A hall clad with light-colored stone veneer with horizontal recessed joints
- An upper floor with an antique composition, featuring projecting pillars, pedimented windows, balcony balusters, and acroteria
- Allegorical sculptures in niche backgrounds framing the balconies
The auditorium reflects the style of Italian theaters, with its paintings, motifs, sculptures, and decorations. The building also includes a grand marble staircase and a stage cage designed according to the traditional system of the first theaters built in the world.
Capacity and Attendance
The theater can accommodate up to 600 spectators in its boxes and galleries. It receives about 53,000 spectators annually.
Name Change
On December 4, 2017, the theater was renamed in honor of Mohamed-Tahar Fergani (1928-2016), a famous malouf singer from Constantine.
