Antigua and Barbuda’s long-awaited Performing Arts Centre is expected to officially open on October 23, with workers now carrying out final preparations at the transformed former Deluxe Cinema building in St. John’s.
The opening date was disclosed during Wednesday’s Cabinet meeting, where Minister Rawdon Turner provided an update on the project’s final stages.
According to the Cabinet report, testing of the facility’s multimedia and technical equipment has commenced, while workers are undertaking a comprehensive deep cleaning and completing minor finishing works.
The development has transformed the former cinema into a modern performing arts venue capable of accommodating approximately 850 people.
The facility is expected to host cultural productions, conferences, performing arts events and other major national and international activities.
Cabinet congratulated Turner and the team responsible for the transformation, highlighting the project as an example of the government’s efforts to restore and repurpose buildings within the capital.
The Performing Arts Centre forms part of a broader programme aimed at improving the appearance, functionality and economic activity of St. John’s.
With the official opening now expected later this month, attention is turning to the completion of the remaining technical and operational preparations.
The government believes the facility will strengthen the country’s cultural infrastructure while creating additional opportunities for entertainment, tourism and the creative industries.
