Did you know that the Teatrino del Río was once a place of shadows? In 2019, this space was far from the colorful and inviting spot we see today. It was a somber area. Around ten people lived here. They struggled with homelessness. Some sold drugs.
But look around you now. The Teatrino del Río has a new face. It is a public space. It connects to the Bulevar del Río. It is a place for fun in the west of Cali.
This transformation happened because people cared. The district planning office worked with community groups. They turned an unused space into the Teatrino del Río. They filled it with activities and color.
The city celebrated the Teatrino del Río’s recovery on July 25th. This was during Cali’s anniversary. There were fun activities for kids. They promoted reading and painting. In the afternoon, music lovers from Unimel played hits from the Cali Fair. Dancers, actors, and musicians also performed.
The Teatrino del Río was recovered through urban workshops. This was part of the National Bicycle Forum in Cali 2019. The workshops were led by Eliana Arce. Various groups and organizations from the city participated.
But the story of the Teatrino del Río is also about personal transformation. Andrés Gutiérrez, a young man from Palmira, had struggled with addiction for two decades. He led the group of people living here. He dreamed of changing the riverbank into a place of hope.
The Fundación Proyectando Generaciones helped Andrés get treatment. One day, he made a bold promise. If they helped him leave the streets, he would help a thousand young people do the same.
On November 2nd, 2023, they ran together along the Cali River. They started at the Teatrino and ended at the Barrio la Isla Sports Center. Andrés had left drugs behind. He had reunited with his family.
Andrés always talked about his method. It was called AMP. This means Positive Mental Attitude. He believed that positivity could help other young people succeed.
Today, Cali faces a challenge. About 8000 young people are homeless. Many lack direction in life. The mission is to support them in building their dreams. Education is a key tool.
The Teatrino del Río reflects this commitment. It is painted in many colors. It has new lights and a pollinator garden. People can enjoy this emblematic space. It is located between Avenida 1N and Calle 5.
The city invested 200 million pesos in renovating this area. It covers about 2500 square meters. The design includes diverse plant species. There are wide paths and ramps for people with limited mobility.
The Teatrino del Río is more than just a pretty space. It represents the city’s commitment to public spaces. It offers a place for families to enjoy. The Secretariats of Culture and Tourism schedule activities here.
So, as you stand here at the Teatrino del Río, remember its story. It is a story of transformation, community, and hope. It shows how a forgotten space can become a vibrant center for the city.