Historical Evolution of Circo Price
19th Century Origins
Circo Price traces its roots to the mid-1800s, when Irish equestrian Thomas Price brought his traveling troupe to Madrid in 1847. Initially, performances were held on Paseo de Recoletos, quickly establishing the venue as a focal point for circus arts in Spain (all-andorra.com). In 1868, Price moved the circus to Plaza del Rey, occupying a site with a storied entertainment legacy, including the former Teatro del Circo. Though the Teatro del Circo was destroyed by fire in 1876, the Circo Price tradition endured (all-andorra.com).
Golden Age and Cultural Significance
From the late 19th to mid-20th century, Circo Price was celebrated as the "capital of Spanish circus." It hosted equestrian acts, acrobatics, music, and theatrical performances, attracting both local and international talent. The venue became deeply woven into Madrid’s cultural fabric, revered for adapting to artistic trends and audience preferences (madrid-destino.com).
Decline and Demolition
By 1970, changing entertainment tastes and aging infrastructure led to the demolition of the original Circo Price. While the physical space disappeared, the name lived on in memory, symbolizing Madrid’s golden age of circus arts (all-andorra.com).
Revival and Modern Transformation
In 2007, the Madrid City Council inaugurated the new Teatro Circo Price at Ronda de Atocha, reviving its historic legacy. The modern complex celebrates multidisciplinary arts, offering a main hall with adjustable circular rings, smaller venues for intimate performances, and a focus on both tradition and innovation (madrid-destino.com; teatromadrid.com).
Programming and Signature Events
Diverse Artistic Offerings
Circo Price’s programming blends classical and contemporary circus, magic shows, theatre, music, and avant-garde productions. Annual highlights include:
- Circo Price en Navidad Family-friendly Christmas spectaculars (esmadrid.com)
- Festival Internacional de Magia de Madrid International magic festival drawing world-renowned magicians (teatrocircoprice.es)
- FiRCO – Iberoamerican Circus Festival Gathering artists from across Ibero-America (firco.org)
The venue also hosts innovative productions, such as “CYBORG” by the Raluy family and “Twist,” a rock-and-circus 3D experience (teatromadrid.com). It honors legendary performers like Miss Mara, further solidifying its role as a living museum of circus arts.
Educational and Community Engagement
Workshops, shadow theater sessions, and the “CRECE” contemporary circus creation lab nurture emerging talent and deepen public appreciation for circus arts (teatrocircoprice.es). Social initiatives include solidarity galas and collaborations with organizations such as Payasos Sin Fronteras.
Planning Your Visit: Hours, Tickets, and Access
Visiting Hours
- Box Office Typically open Tuesday–Sunday, 11:00 AM–2:00 PM, and 4:00 PM–8:00 PM. On show days, the box office opens two hours before performances. Hours may vary, especially during festivals (teatrocircoprice.es).
- Showtimes Vary by event; check the official website for up-to-date schedules (teatrocircoprice.es).
Ticket Information
- Purchasing Tickets are available online via the official Teatro Circo Price website, at the box office, and through authorized resellers.
- Pricing Ranges from €10 to €50 depending on the performance and seating. Discounts (20%) are available for youth, seniors, students, large families, retirees, and people with disabilities. Special rates apply for school groups and performing arts students (teatrocircoprice.es).
- Digital Tickets Accepted on mobile devices.
- Children Under two require a €1 ticket even without a seat.
Accessibility
- Fully accessible for wheelchair users, with designated seating and companion accommodations.
- Magnetic loop system available for visitors with cochlear implants.
- Sensory-friendly performances occasionally offered (teatrocircoprice.es).
Parking and Amenities
- Parking Available at Calle Sebastian Elcano 25 (€4 per vehicle, open one hour before and 30 minutes after shows).
- Cloakroom Not currently available due to health protocols.
- Photography Prohibited during performances except for accredited journalists.
Getting There and Nearby Attractions
Directions
- Address Ronda de Atocha 35, 28012 Madrid
- Metro Lavapiés (5 min walk), Embajadores (7 min), Atocha (under 10 min)
- Bus Lines 27, 34, 36, 41, 119, and C2 stop at the entrance (Teatro Circo Price FAQs)
- Train Cercanías to Embajadores or Atocha
- More Info CTM Madrid, EMT Madrid
Nearby Attractions
- Museo Reina Sofía Modern and contemporary art
- Atocha Railway Station Famous indoor tropical garden
- Retiro Park Iconic green space
- Lavapiés Neighborhood Known for multicultural dining and street art (Trixi)
Visitor Tips and Accessibility
- Book Tickets Early Especially for festivals and popular events (Mint Notion)
- Arrive Early At least 30 minutes before showtime
- Dress Comfortably Layers recommended for Madrid’s variable climate
- Check Age Recommendations Many shows are family-oriented
- Language Most shows are visual; some include Spanish dialogue
- Dining Numerous options nearby; consider pre- or post-show meals
- Discounts Bring valid ID to claim discounts; tourist pass discounts may apply
- Accessibility Contact the venue in advance if assistance is needed
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are Circo Price’s visiting hours?
A: The box office generally opens from 11:00 AM–2:00 PM and 4:00 PM–8:00 PM, Tuesday–Sunday. Showtimes vary by event (teatrocircoprice.es).
Q: How can I buy tickets?
A: Purchase via the official website, box office, or authorized vendors.
Q: Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with dedicated seating and facilities for visitors with reduced mobility.
Q: Are there discounts for tickets?
A: Yes, for children, students, seniors, large families, and other groups. See event details for eligibility.
Q: Is photography allowed?
A: No, unless you are an accredited journalist.
Q: Are there family-friendly shows?
A: Yes, especially during holiday seasons and special festivals.
Q: Where can I park?
A: Parking is available at Calle Sebastian Elcano 25 for €4 per vehicle (teatrocircoprice.es).
