Tadao Ando designs El Teatro on the boulevard to be “round like the Earth”
Japanese architect Tadao Ando has unveiled the design of El Teatro at Aljada, a cylindrical performing arts center in Sharjah overlooking the submerged water features.
The performing arts centre, which is being constructed for developer Arada as part of the masterplan for the Aljada mixed-use project, will be constructed of concrete in keeping with Ando’s signature style.
Covering 24,155 square metres, the theater will feature a 2,000-seat auditorium, a boutique restaurant and gallery, and host performances including theatre, opera, dance, art exhibitions, festivals and films.
The cylindrical building will be covered by a disc-shaped stacked roof, with a smaller outbuilding featuring the same design.
Ando designed El Teatro on the Avenue to span two levels, with the lower level partially recessed into the ground.
The large arched opening will overlook a sunken water feature that forms part of a two-level cultural plaza. This will allow visitors to enter the arts center via concrete walkways leading through pools of water.
“The Theater at Aljada will leave a lasting impact on generations through its focus on culture and art,” Ando said.
“I designed the central structure of the building to be round like the Earth as I wanted to create a new world within it that would attract not only locals, but visitors from all over the world.”
The building, which is scheduled to be completed in 2027, is located on the main road of the textile district being built as part of the boulevard. It will be surrounded by green spaces, with gardens on both sides.
“The Aljada Theater represents an exciting new attraction for Sharjah and the wider UAE, and adds significantly to the list of museums, galleries, entertainment venues and other cultural venues for which Sharjah is already famous,” said Arada Vice Chairman, Prince Khalid bin Al Waleed. Bin Talal said.
He added: “We are extremely proud to work with Tadao Ando, who has a long track record of designing exceptional public spaces that dazzle and engage their visitors, and we look forward to working with him to bring his vision to reality.”
Naseej’s masterplan consists of 19 buildings, including a branded hotel and apartment complex. The broader Aljada project is located near Sharjah Airport and will also include a cultural center designed by Zaha Hadid Architects.
Il Teatro at Aljada will be Ando’s second design in the UAE. The architect also designed another project for Arada, the Armani Beach Residences on Palm Jumeirah.
Other recent projects and events in Sharjah include an ice factory converted into an arts venue and the Sharjah Architecture Triennial, which is currently taking place in the emirate and from which Dezeen reports directly.
Photos courtesy of Arada.
