The historic Teatre Regina in Terrassa, which closed its doors in 1983 to become a bingo hall, is preparing for a new chapter. Following a complex renovation process, the managers of the Centre Cultural El Social are in the final stretch to reopen the venue, which will feature 340 seats. The reopening, scheduled for the second half of 2026, will be partially funded by a public fundraising campaign and corporate collaborations.
“"What we want is to open a theater in the city. It will be a very well-located theater, with a capacity that is ideal for us because it is between the Principal (601 seats) and Alegria (237) theaters."
Ricard Figueras, president of El Social, emphasized the importance of this new space for the city, highlighting its strategic location and capacity, which positions it between the municipal theaters Principal and Alegria. The goal is for the theater to be accessible to all entities and schools in Terrassa, not just for the association's own productions, which include eight entities such as its theater group, the Esbart Egarenc, and the Coral Lamardebé.
The journey to reopening has been a true 'calvary'. Since the closure of El Socialet in 2006, the intention to rehabilitate the Regina was thwarted by the financial crisis and, later, by the COVID-19 pandemic. Figueras, president since 2016, spearheaded the project after the pandemic. During the process, it was discovered that the space had never held a license as an entertainment venue, despite having operated as a cinema, bingo hall, and even a Star Wars attraction.
The renovation, which began in 2020, required a new construction permit, leading to the complete overhaul of the asbestos roof and the building's structure, significantly increasing costs. The roof works, initially expected to last three or four months, extended for two years. The total budget is estimated at around three million euros, with approximately one and a half million already spent. To complete the third phase, which includes installing seats and preparing the stage area, an additional 98,000 euros are needed.
The donation campaign, active for a month on El Social's website, offers incentives such as invitations to the inauguration, public recognition, season passes, or the opportunity to sponsor a seat. To date, over 15,000 euros have been raised. Additionally, agreements are being sought with Catalan companies, and support from media figures like singer Miki Núñez is anticipated. Although no specific inauguration date has been set, the intention is to open the theater this year with the minimum essential elements.
