Centro De Documentación De Las Artes Escénicas De Andalucía

Introduction

The Centro de Documentación de las Artes Escénicas de Andalucía (CDAEA), also referred to as CIRAE, is a cornerstone of Andalusia’s cultural life and performing arts heritage. Located in the historic heart of Seville at Plaza de Santa Lucía, this institution preserves, studies, and showcases a legacy of theater, dance, circus, and magic spanning nearly two centuries. Housed within a beautifully restored 14th-century Gothic-Mudéjar building, CDAEA offers both an architectural and cultural experience, with free admission, guided tours by appointment, and a robust program of exhibitions and workshops. Its extensive archives and digital resources—including the Elektra digital archive—make it a vital destination for researchers, performing arts professionals, and visitors alike. This guide covers everything you need to plan your visit, from opening hours to accessibility, collections, and nearby attractions.

For the latest information, visit the CDAEA official site and explore the Elektra Digital Archive.

About the CDAEA

The CDAEA is a leading research and documentation center for Andalusian performing arts. Since its founding by the Junta de Andalucía’s Consejería de Cultura y Deporte, it preserves and shares an impressive archive of scripts, photographs, audiovisual materials, and more. Its mission extends from safeguarding historic heritage to supporting contemporary artists through public engagement, digital resources, and collaborations with festivals and institutions.

The center’s home—a former church exemplifying Gothic-Mudéjar architecture—offers an atmospheric setting for its exhibitions and events. The building’s transformation from sacred site to cultural hub reflects Seville’s dynamic history and evolving identity.

History and Cultural Significance

Andalusia’s performing arts are deeply rooted in the region’s Roman and Moorish past, with a vibrant tradition of theatre and dance that remains active today. CDAEA’s collections trace this evolution, from 19th-century manuscripts to contemporary digital media. Through partnerships with events such as the Festival Internacional Cádiz en Danza and Feria de Sevilla, the center ensures that Andalusian stage arts continue to flourish and gain international recognition.

Visiting Hours and Admission

Opening Hours

The CDAEA’s schedule varies seasonally:

• January 1 to June 14:
  Monday–Thursday: 9:00–19:00
  Friday: 9:00–14:00

• June 17 to September 13:
  Monday–Friday: 9:00–14:00
  Closed in August

• From September 16 onwards:
  Monday–Thursday: 9:00–19:00
  Friday: 9:00–14:00

Always confirm hours before visiting, especially around public holidays or special events. See the official CDAEA website for updates.

Admission and Tickets

• General Admission: Free of charge
• Exhibitions & Reading Rooms: Included in free entry
• Guided Tours and Workshops: Available by advance booking; some may require a small fee
• Contact for Reservations:
  Phone: 955 928 850
  Email: [email protected]
  For group visits, contact [email protected]

Location and Accessibility

• Address: C/ Santa Lucía, 10, 41003 Sevilla, Spain
• Public Transport:
  Easily accessible by city buses (e.g., lines 3, 5, 21, 27, and 40) and a short walk from Santa Justa train station. The nearest metro station is Puerta Jerez.
• Parking:
  Limited street parking; public garages nearby are recommended, especially during major events.

Accessibility

CDAEA is committed to inclusivity:

• Wheelchair-accessible entrances and elevators
• Adapted restrooms
• Assistance available upon request

Facilities and Collections

Library and Periodicals Archive

• Monographs: Over 46,000 volumes
• Periodicals: 1,215 historical titles, 14 currently active journals
• Reading Stations: 32, with computers for digital archive access
• Quiet, naturally lit spaces ideal for study and research

Archival Holdings

• Images: Over 325,000, spanning performances since 1823
• Audiovisual Materials: 15,543 items, including rare recordings
• Posters: 9,477
• Photographic Reports: 8,200
• Costume and Set Design: 2,000 costume figurines, 1,376 set sketches
• Sound Recordings: 600
• Press Documents: 165,815
• Hand Programs: 20,700
• Digital Resources: 346 electronic books, 473 online journals and videos

Guided Tours, Workshops, and Special Events

• Guided Tours: General and specialized tours available by appointment.
  Note: Guided visits are not available in July, August, or September.
• Workshops: Educational and creative programs for all ages, including school groups.
• “Los martes A escena”: Monthly series featuring talks, presentations, and performances.
• Special Exhibitions: Rotating displays on Andalusian theater, dance, and related arts.

Check the center’s website or contact staff for current schedules and bookings.

Nearby Attractions in Seville

Combine your visit to CDAEA with other major cultural sites:

• Seville Cathedral & Giralda Tower (10 minutes on foot)
• Alcázar of Seville
• Barrio Santa Cruz (historic Jewish quarter)
• Museo de Bellas Artes de Sevilla
• Archivo General de Indias
• Plaza de España & Parque de María Luisa

Visitor Tips and Recommendations

• Plan ahead: Book guided tours well in advance, especially for groups.
• Best times to visit: Weekdays are generally quieter.
• Explore the neighborhood: Enjoy a stroll through Plaza de Santa Lucía and surrounding historic streets.
• Use digital resources: Take advantage of the Elektra archive for research before or after your visit.
• Accessibility: Contact the center prior to your visit if you have specific accessibility needs.
• Combine with other sites: Make the most of your time in Seville by visiting nearby museums and landmarks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are CDAEA’s opening hours?
A: Hours vary by season. Generally, Monday–Thursday 9:00–19:00, Friday 9:00–14:00; shorter hours in summer; closed in August.

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: No, general admission and most services are free. Some tours and workshops may require booking or a small fee.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, by advance booking. Email [email protected] for group visits.

Q: Is CDAEA accessible to visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes. The center is wheelchair accessible and staff can assist with specific needs.

Q: Can I access the collections online?
A: Yes, via the Elektra Digital Archive.

Q: Are resources available in languages other than Spanish?
A: While most materials are in Spanish, staff can assist English-speaking visitors.

Q: Is the CDAEA suitable for children?
A: Yes. Educational programs and workshops are available for young visitors.

Discover More

• Official Website: CDAEA official site
• Visiting Information: CDAEA Visitor Info
• Newsletter: Subscribe via the website for updates on exhibitions and events.
• Social Media: Follow CDAEA for the latest news and cultural activities.
• Audiala App: Download for interactive guides and multimedia experiences at cultural sites across Andalusia.