The activities of the I Teatri Foundation of Reggio Emilia encompass nearly all sectors of live performance. To host dance, drama, concerts, opera, children’s theatre, musicals, and operettas, it utilizes a unique theatrical system in Italy: three theatres – Teatro Municipale Valli, Teatro Ariosto, Teatro Cavallerizza – gathered around a square in the heart of the city, each strongly characterized both architecturally and by the type of programming. The majestic Teatro Municipale Valli, surrounded by public gardens, covers an area of 3,890 square meters. It annually hosts a prestigious opera and concert season, along with a rich representation of dance and musical theatre performances. It houses a media library and a historic record library open to the public. The complex was built between 1852 and 1857, according to the design of the Modenese architect Cesare Costa, and today appears practically unchanged from its inaugural moment. In 1980, it was dedicated to the Reggio actor Romolo Valli.

The Ariosto Theatre was originally called the “Cittadella Theatre” because it was located near the ancient defensive bastion commissioned by the Gonzaga family (at the end of 1339) during their rule in Reggio Emilia. Today it is the second city theatre, mainly hosting drama performances. Built between 1740 and 1741 based on a design by Antonio Cugini and destroyed by a fire in 1851, the theatre was rebuilt respecting the original lines and was dedicated to Ludovico Ariosto, the great poet born in Reggio Emilia in 1474.

The Cavallerizza Theatre is the third most important theatre in the city and, like the Ariosto Theatre, overlooks Piazza della Vittoria. The building was used as an indoor riding arena until the Second World War. After its original function was discontinued, the building was renovated and designated for theatrical performances in 1994.
The auditorium can accommodate up to 450 spectators on two movable stands that can offer up to 12 different configurations. This extraordinary spatial versatility makes the Cavallerizza the natural venue for special projects, experimental drama and contemporary dance performances, stages, workshops, and conferences.