Santa Cruz to Transform Espacio R as Guimerá Theatre Closes for Renovation

Santa Cruz de Tenerife is preparing for a major change as the Guimerá Theatre closes for a full renovation, which is expected to last until 2028. To keep the city’s performing arts scene alive during this time, the City Council is transforming the former La Recova Art Center, known as Espacio R, into a new cultural hub starting this November.

The Autonomous Organization of Culture (OAC) has set aside nearly one million euros for this transition. Councilor Santiago Díaz-Mejías confirmed that 960,000 euros will be spent on essential technical upgrades, including new stage equipment, lighting, sound systems, and seating. Work is scheduled to begin in July to ensure there is no significant break in the city’s cultural programming.

This project is part of a larger seven-million-euro investment in local culture. To help bridge the gap left by the Guimerá’s closure, the city is also decentralizing its performances. Shows will be brought to community centers in Valleseco, Nuevo Obrero, and El Sobradillo, making the arts more accessible to residents in their own neighborhoods.

The city remains committed to the legacy of playwright Ángel Guimerá. The council will continue to host theatrical tours at historic locations like Plaza Isla de La Madera and Calle La Noria, with tickets available through the #SoyCulturaSC app. The annual calendar also features educational tours for schools and families in April, as well as traditional performances of Don Juan Tenorio at Los Lavaderos and other community venues in November. Through these efforts, the local government aims to keep cultural services running smoothly while modernizing its most important theatre.