Top Entertainment in Marrakech

Dar Cherifa

This coffee shop hidden in the medina occupies a 500-year-old mansion that has been brilliantly restored, evidenced by its grand patio. Admiring this beautiful piece of Saadian architecture while sipping mint tea, you'll fall under the spell of the contemporary art exhibits held here. Dar Cherifa also holds poetry readings, concerts and literary meetings.

Théâtre Royal

Théâtre Royal notably features an opera room, and an outdoor amphitheater that seats up to 1200 people. This large venue has hosted plays, concerts, exhibits and movies. Design plans for the theater were in the works in the 1970s, but the building, inaugurated in 2001, is still undergoing some changes. However, it is worth the visit, not only for the performances and exhibits, but also for the beauty and originality of the building, the work of architect Charles Boccara, who lives in Marrakech.

Colisée

Welcome to one of the two modern cinemas in Marrakech! Situated in the center of Gueliz, the Colisée is housed in a beautiful building. It shows mostly mainstream films, principally American imports with the occasional Moroccan or European movie thrown into the mix. From time to time, it throws out a surprises film, such as its re-release of Moll Flanders.

Mabrouka

This cinema is a meeting point for many of the interesting characters in Marrakech. With a cafe next door and situated on the busy street of Bab Agnaou, it is certainly one of the more inviting of the medina's cinemas. Nevertheless, women are not advised to go alone or they can expect to feel uncomfortable with the hassle and attention they are likely to receive. The cinema is housed in a very beautiful building with an open roof allowing the occasional bird to fly through.

Cinema Eden

One of the main Medina cinemas, Cinema Eden provides satisfaction for those seeking slightly peculiar surroundings. Specializing in action films a la John Woo and Jackie Chan, this venue is principally a male domain, and therefore women should be prepared for a bit of a reception.

Institut Francais

Next to the Lycée Victor Hugo, Institut Francais is Marrakech's largest cultural institution with a vast program of cultural entertainment. Besides numerous theatrical performances, concerts, and lectures, it also has regular exhibitions ranging from local art, contemporary paintings, and photography to contemporary displays. In Marrakech, it is one of the few venues that stages the performances of local artists. It also has one of the best cinema programs in town and is the place to go for an art house film.

Megarama

The newest cinema in Marrakech opened in 2006 and belongs to the French chain Megarama. This multi-theater cinema shows some of the latest American releases along with older blockbusters, and the programming includes comedies, action films and movies for the kids. Tickets vary from MAD25 to MAD40.

Casino de Marrakech

Opened in 1952 by the former owner of Paris' famous Moulin Rouge, Jean Bauchet, the Casino of Marrakech has everything you'd expect: slot machines, black jack, poker, roulette, live shows, and more. Its huge door stands in the middle of the park at Es Saadi Gardens & Resorts hotel. It rubs up against one of the trendiest place in Marrakech, the ThéâtrO. Proper dress is required.

Awaln'art

The Awaln'art festival was begun in August 2007, on the intiative of the companies Eclats de Lune and Graine de Soleil. Streets shows take place over four days, filled with circuses, storytelling and music. The festival tours Marrakech and some villages of the surrounding valley.

Ramadan

During the fasting month of Ramadan, don't hesitate to make your way to Jemaâ El Fna Square at the break of the fast each dusk, to sample a good harira. Harira is an invigorating Moroccan soup that is often accompanied with dates. During Ramadan, Jemaâ El Fna is well attended and lively until very late. The Institut Français plans several events during the month of Ramadan, such as Andalusian music or jazz concerts, plays, poetry readings, symposiums, exhibits, films, etc., that take place in different venues in the city. During Ramadan, the opening hours of some of the shops, restaurants, museums and administrations change slightly, while evenings are more lively than usual. Show respect by avoiding eating or smoking in public during the day. The dates of Ramadan follow a lunar calendar.