Sharjah is slated to boast a new architectural marvel: Il Teatro, an expansive performing arts centre envisioned by Japanese architect Tadao Ando, recipient of the prestigious 1995 Pritzker Prize. A commission by local developer Arada, Il Teatro forms an integral part of its master plan for Aljada, a mixed-use development spanning 24 million square feet, marking it as the largest project ever undertaken in Sharjah.
Il Teatro embodies Ando’s signature architectural simplicity. It is a cylindrical structure made from concrete crowned with a stacked, disc-shaped roof. Complementing this main edifice is a smaller outbuilding featuring the same design. The building spans two levels, with a portion of the lower level nestled into the ground. A grand arched opening overlooks a sunken water feature forming part of a two-level cultural plaza that seamlessly merges indoor and outdoor spaces. The intentional circularity of the entrance symbolises the architect’s aspiration to create “a new world” within the structure. Together, the building and the plaza cover 260,000+ square feet.
According to the plan, Il Teatro houses a 2,000-seat auditorium as well as a boutique restaurant, an event space, and a gallery. It will host a full range of performances and shows encompassing opera, theatre, dance, ballet, musicals, concerts, film screenings, exhibitions, and festivals.
Il Teatro will be situated along the main thoroughfare of the Naseej creative district, part of Aljada, and flanked by “green spines”: urban parks characterised by lush foliage and vibrant flora. There will also be cafes, workshops, and art studios adjacent to the parks. While the Naseej district comprising 19 buildings that include the Vida Aljada hotel and branded apartments complex is already in progress, construction on Il Teatro and the plaza is set to start this year and is expected to be finished in 2027.
To get more information about Il Teatro, please visit its official web page.
Additionally, you might be interested in reading about the headquarters of the BEEAH Group in Sharjah and another four notable upcoming architectural projects in the UAE.
