João do Vale Theatre and Its Rich History

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The João do Vale Theatre is one of the few spaces dedicated to artistic performances in São Luís. This important cultural space reflects the rich history and artistic tradition of the region.

Teatro João do Vale em São Luís do Maranhão — João do Vale Theatre in São Luís do Maranhão

History of the building

The building that houses the theatre was originally a sugar warehouse owned by the businessman Rocha Aguiar. Located in the Largo do Comércio (Rua da Estrela), it was built in the 1950s and only became a theatre in the late 1980s.

Teatro João do Vale em São Luís do Maranhão

1. Adaptation and structure

At first glance, the Teatro João do Vale could be mistaken for a colonial house, mainly because of its address and the style of its façade. But this is a mistake.

The João do Vale Theatre is nothing more than a pastiche. Due to its strategic location, the building was acquired by the State Government during the administration of Epitácio Cafeteira, as part of the Revitalisation Project, and adapted to resemble the neighbouring sobrados, so as not to clash with the architectural ensemble of Praia Grande.

A triangular pediment was added to the new façade, and toilets, a stage and a administration room were installed inside. At the time it was painted yellow and was nicknamed the Teatro Canarinho.

2. Re-opening

On December 18, 2001, the theatre was reopened after a new renovation, and was given its current name. In the foyer, there is now a bust of the Maranhão singer-songwriter. At the same time, modern scenery, sound, acoustics and air conditioning equipment were purchased.

In the same year, the João do Vale Theatre was taken over by the State Government as a laboratory for the Actor Training Course of the Maranhão Centre for the Performing Arts (Cacem) and became the stage for important artistic performances and festivals. However, in 2006 the Theatre was separated from the Agency and became the responsibility of the State Secretariat for Culture (Secma).

Artist João Batista do Vale

Life and work

The artist João Batista do Vale, better known as João do Vale, was born on October 11, 1934 in Pedreiras, Maranhão. From humble beginnings, João always had a great passion for music and moved to São Luís at the age of 13.

He made his debut as a singer in 1964. Among his most important compositions are Carcará, in collaboration with José Cândido and immortalised by Maria Bethânia; Peba na pimenta, with Adelino Rivera; and Pisa na fulô, with Silveira Júnior. João do Vale died on 6 December 1996 in the capital of Maranhão.

Practical information

João do Vale Theatre
Address: Rua da Estrela, 283, Praia Grande.

This theatre is a space that not only preserves the memory of a great artist, but also continues to be a meeting point for culture and art in São Luís do Maranhão.

Written by Willy Sievert

Editor of Bahia.ws since its founding in 2009. Based in Salvador, he travels frequently across the Northeast and all of Brazil to keep the guides up to date. Learn more about Willy Sievert →

Published on 28/11/2021 · Updated on 14/05/2025