Manila Metropolitan Theater, Manila

The Manila Metropolitan Theater, located near Mehan Garden, is an iconic example of Philippine Art Deco architecture, designed by architect Juan M. Arellano. In 1862, the Teatro del Príncipe Alfonso XII was erected in Plaza Arroceros, close to where the Metropolitan Theater stands today. Unfortunately, it was destroyed by fire in 1876.

During the American Colonial period in 1924, plans for constructing a theater in Manila were conceived. Construction commenced in 1930, and the theater was officially inaugurated on December 10, 1931. Over the years, it hosted various performances including zarzuelas, dramas, and translations of foreign classics.

The façade of the Metropolitan Theater features a central stained glass window framed like a stage, adorned with the name "Metropolitan" and surrounded by flora and fauna motifs. The curved walls on either end are decorated with colorful tiles reminiscent of Southeast Asian batik patterns. Zigzag and wavy line moldings complement the vibrant, multi-colored walls. The entrance is distinguished by Angkor Wat-inspired minarets atop the concave roof, and elaborate wrought iron gates patterned with leaf designs and lines. Capiz lamps and banana-leaf pillars adorn the ground level.

During World War II, the theater suffered partial damage to its roof and walls. In the post-war period, it was repurposed as a boxing arena, motel, gay bar, basketball court, and squatter settlement. Restoration efforts began in 1978 under the initiative of then-Governor of Metro Manila, Imelda Marcos, with Otilio, Juan Arellano's nephew, leading the project.

In May 2015, the Department of Budget and Management allocated Php 270 million from the National Endowment Fund for Culture to commence the rehabilitation of the Met. The restoration project aims to reopen the theater's wings by 2020 and unveil the new Metropolitan Theater Complex by 2021.