Located just a short walk from Piazza Ferretto, the theatre was originally intended to be named after Queen Elena but was eventually named after the Toniolo brothers, who began construction in 1912 to create a dedicated cultural space in Mestre’s centre. It opened on 30 August 1913 with a performance of Giuseppe Verdi’s Rigoletto.

At its opening, the theatre featured a single tier of boxes and a loggia, with large windows that provided natural light and ventilation. The ceiling is decorated with tempera paintings by Alessandro Pomi depicting the Triumph of Apollo, still visible beneath a modern false ceiling. Near the stage, two statues hold up a clock, adding to the theatre’s historic charm.

The façade was designed by engineer Giorgio Francesconi, inspired by Venice’s Teatro La Fenice and possibly Nicola Piamonte’s designs for Teatro Goldoni.

Today, the Toniolo has a stylish auditorium with 740 seats and hosts a range of events including drama, dance, and classical music from both national and international artists. The foyer displays restored tempera decorations, reflecting its original Art Deco style. A prized Steinway & Sons half-grand piano, donated to the Associazione Amici della Musica di mestre, adds to the elegant atmosphere.

The theatre has continuously operated since its opening, screening historic films and newsreels, then silent comedies, and in 1928 introducing sound cinema to Mestre. In the 1930s, alongside traditional plays, the theatre hosted popular entertainments such as boxing and circus acts. It was converted into a cinema in 1951, with the original boxes removed and replaced by a concrete gallery maintaining the horseshoe shape.

Following a major restoration by the City of Venice in the early 2000s, the Toniolo has reclaimed its role as a key venue for chamber music, symphony, theatre, dance, and comedy.

To organise events or performances at Teatro Toniolo, you need to submit a proposal to the Culture Department of the Municipality of Venice, which will assess the suitability based on the venue’s features and logistics.

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