The Teatro Hidalgo was founded on September 15, 1883.  Construction began on the neo-Gothic building in 1873 under the direction and creation of Don Lucio Uribe. It is dedicated in honor of Father Miguel Hidalgo, leader of the Mexican independence movement and pastor of Colima in 1791. The theater functioned as a forum for the leading European companies of zarzuela until 1941 when the roof collapsed due to an earthquake that shook the city. For many years after cockfighting, wrestling, boxing and bullfighting events were held here. Later it was remodeled by the Secretary of State Urban Development and reopened in 1961. After that, several other renovations have taken place.  In 1997, through the Program of Cultural Infrastructure Support for the States (Paice) by Conaculta, one of the galleries, the stage and backstage were renovated, and damaged seats were replaced. The theater was also equipped with a computer, air conditioning, and dressing rooms. El Teatro Hidalgo is considered to be one of the most beautiful theaters in the country and the most important cultural forum of the state. The theater holds theatrical shows, music, dance, children’s events, festivals, conferences, meetings and formally presents the Folkloric Ballet of the University of Colima.

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