Step back in time to October 24, 1948, when the curtains first rose at the magnificent and historic Teatro Ercilia in Barahona, Dominican Republic. This stunning Art Deco architectural masterpiece, conceived by the visionary Socrates Lagares Arias and his wife, Ercilia Lama Lama, and brought to life by architect Octavio Pérez Garrido ("TRENE"), quickly became the beating heart of Barahona's cultural scene and a vibrant artistic and entertainment hub in the region.
Socrates Lagares Arias, a prominent figure in the community, was the visionary behind the creation of the theater. His initiative brought a modern and sophisticated venue for entertainment to Barahona, reflecting the optimistic spirit of the post-war era.
Its grand inauguration in 1948 featured the film "Enamorada," starring the iconic actress María Félix alongside Pedro Armendáriz and Fernando Fernández, drawing crowds and establishing the Teatro Ercilia as Barahona's premier entertainment venue. The theater's elegant Art Deco design, with its distinctive geometric patterns and bold lines, symbolized a progressive and sophisticated era for the city.
Although the" Teatro Ericilia; has been closed for many years. However, it remains a cherished landmark and a testament to a vibrant period in Barahona's history. This building has been a beacon of art and culture in the "Pearl of the South," as Dominicans refer to Barahona.
It is owned by the Lagares-Lama family, and the name is in honor of Ercilia Lama, his beloved wife, who later passed it on to their heirs.
PHOTOS PERTINENT TO THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE THEATER
The first movie to air when the Ercilia Theater opened was the Mexican film "Enamorada" starring María Félix. (Please click the poster to know more about the film)
