A recent Facebook video has brought to light the deteriorating condition of the interior ceiling of Sauto Theater in Matanzas, showing visible moisture stains on its soffit beams. This revelation has sparked outrage among many Cubans, questioning how such a significant national landmark continues to decline despite costly renovations.
Reynaldo García, the user who shared the video, captured footage directed upwards, showcasing the unmistakable dark moisture spots on the neoclassical ceiling beams of the theater.
García's video commentary was laced with biting irony: "This is Sauto's portal, look at how it gets wet. Wasn't this restored and awarded something? There's another floor above: I don't understand anything. Ah, the award was for the waterfall."
The clip quickly amassed over 17,000 views, a testament to the frustration felt by those familiar with the theater’s recent history.
History of Sauto's Restoration Efforts
Originally inaugurated on April 6, 1863, and designated a National Monument in 1978, the theater was closed for a decade—from 2009 to 2019—to undergo its most extensive renovation in over 160 years.
Authorities had promised that this renovation would restore more than 90% of the theater's original features. The grand reopening in October 2019 was met with official celebrations and high hopes.
However, reality soon challenged this optimism.
Continued Decay and Neglect
By 2024, just five years post-reopening, a significant crack was discovered in the ceiling above the main seating area. Radio 26 reported that the leaks were due to broken rainwater pipes and poor waterproofing, damaging the wooden flooring and beams on stage. The metal slabs with expanded polyethylene on the roof had separated over time, worsening the issue.
The main hall closed for eight months, reopening on July 12, 2025, following partial repairs and restoration of the mural of the muses. Nevertheless, comprehensive roof repairs and structural reinforcements were deferred to 2026.
This week's viral video indicates that many of those projects remain unfinished.
Widespread Heritage Crisis in Matanzas
The Sauto Theater's plight is not an isolated incident. In recent months, other historical sites in Matanzas have suffered from neglect: a bush has compromised the structure of the José White Hall, the Cárdenas Martyrs Mausoleum has been looted, the General Lacret Morlot Bridge is showing cracks and erosion, and the Martyrs Mausoleum remains vulnerable to theft.
The province is grappling with a systemic heritage crisis, and authorities have been unable to stem the tide of decay.
In April 2025, the theater itself raised alarms over vandalism, misuse of its portals as public restrooms, theft of chains, and a complete lack of nighttime security at Plaza de la Vigía.
Artist Adrián Socorro poignantly captured the irony with his observation: "If they put the same effort into addressing this problem as they do in repression and harassment..."
A commenter bluntly summarized the situation: "And no one takes action, it's been reported at every level, but no one addresses the issue, that's the state of our iconic theaters."
Frequently Asked Questions About Sauto Theater's Condition
What is causing the leaks in Sauto Theater?
The leaks are reportedly caused by broken rainwater pipes and inadequate waterproofing, which have led to damage in the wooden flooring and beams.
When was Sauto Theater last renovated?
Sauto Theater underwent its most extensive renovation between 2009 and 2019, with a grand reopening in October 2019.
What other historical sites in Matanzas are facing neglect?
Other sites include the José White Hall, the Cárdenas Martyrs Mausoleum, and the General Lacret Morlot Bridge, all of which are facing structural and maintenance issues.