in the 18th century it was already very popular in rio de janeiro and some performers native from the city were becoming known worldwide. the following century would see the creation of the first operas written in brazil.

today there are several locations across rio de janeiro where the public can enjoy famous operas - the most well-known of these locations, though, is the historical municipal theater of rio de janeiro.

built in the early 20th century it was inaugurated in 1909. the building was refurbished in 1934, 1975 and 1996, to allow greater attendance and adapt it to the ever-changing needs of the arts and the public.

it is also the right place to attend to some of the best opera presentations in the city, inclusive some staged by the 'carioca' andré heller-lopes, the most famous brazilian opera stage director.