Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theatre, often called “Sala Chalermkrung,” is one of the most important cultural landmarks in Bangkok. It was built as part of the celebrations for the 150th anniversary of the founding of Bangkok. King Prajadhipok (Rama VII) laid the foundation stone on 1 July 1930 and gave the theatre its name.
The building was designed by M.C. Samaichalerm Kridakorn, a Thai architect educated in France. He combined Western architecture with Thai decorative elements. The theatre was the first cinema in Thailand to use a chilled water air-conditioning system imported from the United States. Sala Chalermkrung opened to the public on 2 July 1933 with the first sound-on-film screening, the American movie Below the Sea.
During the Second World War (1942–1945, King Rama VIII), the theatre was used mainly for stage plays and music because no films could be imported. After the war, film screenings resumed and Sala Chalermkrung remained a leading venue.
In 1992, the theatre underwent a major renovation. The stage was enlarged with hydraulic systems, and seating was reduced from 1,000 to about 600. It was upgraded to become a national performance venue. Since then, the theatre has hosted traditional Thai masked dance (khon) shows using modern stage techniques, theatre productions, concerts, and special events.
After its renovation, Sala Chalermkrung became a venue for high classical dance performances, particularly khon masked dance, enhanced with modern stage techniques of lighting and sound. It also hosts theatre productions, concerts, events organised by the Thai Film Foundation under royal patronage, and memorial programmes honouring prominent cultural figures.
In addition, Sala Chalermkrung has been the site of important world film premieres. In 2001, it hosted the premiere of The Legend of Suriyothai, directed by M.C. Chatrichalerm Yukol, which was attended by King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit. In 2011, it also presented the premiere of King Naresuan III: Naval Battle, directed by M.C. Chatrichalerm Yukol, with Queen Sirikit in attendance.
Today, the theatre operates as “Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theatre,” managed by Chalermkrung Maneetas Co., Ltd., and continues to be a centre for cultural performances in Bangkok.
