The history of theatre in Argentina dates back to colonial times when the Jesuit used performance to promote their Christian values and stories to the natives in the new world.
The Teatro de la Rancheria, the first Argentina theatre had its first performance in 1778.
In 1789, a 5 act piece called Siripo was shown, written by Manuel José de Lavardén, poet and journalist, whose since lost text is considered the beginning of Argentine theatre.
La Ranchería burned down in 1792 and 4 years later la sala de la revolucion was inaugurated, followed by many other theatres.
In the 1880's gauchesco theatre became popular, featuring gaucho cowboy characters. By the turn of the century Argentines were enjoying Circo Criollo a mixture of circus style horseback riding with comedy. Comedic theatre in Argentina continued as the Spanish immigrants who arrived later brought one act comedies with them which translated very well locally.
In the 1950's Argentina was persuing realism and in the 1960's the absurd was popular. Unfortunately, the dictatorship of the 1970's saw many of Argentina's thespians and technicians flee the country.
Fortunately for Argentina, theatre continued capturing the attention of the people and nowadays, Buenos Aires sees around 80 different theatre shows each weekend across the city.
