Rome's historic Sala Umberto theatre seeks new operator as lease expires
The Teatro Sala Umberto, located in central Rome close to Piazza di Spagna, is on the lookout for a new operator as its lease is set to conclude at the end of 2025. Constructed by Andrea Busiri Vici from 1867 to 1871, the venue opened its doors in 1882 and underwent expansion in 1890. After various uses, it returned to its theatrical roots in 2002, accommodating 250 patrons. Managed by Invimit, the theatre has received an initial rental proposal of €67,500, with submissions accepted until February 16, 2026. The new lease spans 9 years without the option for renewal, and the operator must comply with cultural heritage regulations. Esteemed artists like Totò, Anna Magnani, and Domenico Modugno have graced its stage, showcasing a vibrant history of variety and Italian revue.
Key facts
- Teatro Sala Umberto in Rome seeks new operator after lease expires end of 2025
- Built 1867-1871 by Andrea Busiri Vici, opened 1882 as concert hall
- Invimit manages the property for Fondo Dante Comparto Convivio
- Initial offer of €67,500 annual rent, proposals accepted until Feb 16, 2026
- New lease will be 9 years without automatic renewal
- Operator must respect cultural heritage constraints and theatre use
- Theatre hosted Petrolini's debut on May 25, 1911
- Notable performers include Totò, Anna Magnani, Walter Chiari, Renato Rascel
Entities
Artists
- Andrea Busiri Vici
- Alessandro Bazzani
- Giulio Podesti
- Petrolini
- Attilio Spaccarelli
- Arnaldo Foschini
- Marino brothers
- Raffaele Viviani
- Nicola Maldacea
- Totò
- Aldo Fabrizi
- De Filippo brothers
- Anna Fougez
- Odoardo Spadaro
- Renato Rascel
- Rossano Brazzi
- Anna Magnani
- Walter Chiari
- Luigi Longobardi
- Domenico Modugno
- Luigi Antonelli
- Edmo Fenoglio
- Alessandro Longobardi
- Maddalena Crippa
- Peter Stein
- Livia Clementi
- Livia Montagnoli
Institutions
- Teatro Sala Umberto
- Invimit
- Ministero dell'Economia e della Finanza
- Fondo Dante Comparto Convivio
- Salone Margherita
- ETI (Ente Teatrale Italiano)
- Istituto Luce
- Medusa
- Artribune
Locations
- Rome
- Italy
- Piazza di Spagna
- via della Mercede