his Theatre was designed by the German architect Georg Karl Phillip Theodore von Normann. It is an example of premature neoclassicism in the Province. Originally the Theatre occupied, with its twin, the Municipal Chamber, also by Normann, one side of the square - the Praça Marechal Deodoro. In the center was a fountain, part of a typically neoclassical project.
During construction there was considerable debate as to the design, and the architect was under constant fire. He had tried to avoid the prismatic rigidity which characterizes neoclassicism, although the overall style persists. The triangular pediments each above an aperture, the lintel course with its projections, the cornice with modillions, all these accentuate the play of light and shade.
The original design was modified by a number of rebuilds. From 1943 to 1946, adaptations took place, and the original architectural and decorative elements were covered up. The restoration of 1975 caused even more interference. The roof timbers were replaced by metal structures and the original ceiling was removed and a new one installed.