The Government of Antigua and Barbuda will move ahead with plans to renovate the former Deluxe Cinema for the hosting of cultural events and performing arts presentations.
However, the government’s Chief of Staff, Amb. Lionel “Max” Hurst, could not give a start date for the renovation work, but said it could “take some time” as the required alterations to the building will be substantial.
Hurst added that the renovations will allow the facility to accommodate larger crowds, and will exceed the capacity of other venues presently used to stage national cultural events.
According to the Chief of Staff, the ultimate objective of the project is to transform the cinema into a place where the performing arts can be improved.
The Government purchased the cinema property located on the corner of High and Temple Streets in 2018 and announced that the Ministry of Culture will take occupancy of the building as of January 1, 2019.
Minister of Tourism, Charles “Max” Fernandez, was the second largest shareholder in the long-standing cinema operation, after his brother Joseph Fernandez up to 2009, according to records at the registry of companies.
The government’s purchase of the property was met with strong political and public condemnation from those who saw it as a bailout for Fernandez and his family.
