The Antiguan government is advancing ambitious plans to elevate the nation’s cultural infrastructure with a dual-pronged approach: the imminent completion of a $20 million performing arts center and a potential state investment in a national sound and lighting system. Prime Minister Gaston Browne, speaking on the ‘Browne and Browne Show,’ confirmed that the transformation of the former Deluxe Cinema into a cutting-edge performance venue is on track for a September or October unveiling.
Beyond the brick-and-mortar development, the administration is contemplating a significant investment in professional audio-visual technology. This initiative aims to drastically improve the production quality of large-scale national events, including Carnival celebrations and major concerts. The government has already procured a large stage for the new center and is now evaluating the acquisition of a professional-grade sound system, with lighting equipment also under consideration.
Prime Minister Browne framed this investment as a crucial component of a broader strategy to ‘level up’ the country’s creative economy. He emphasized the government’s role in ensuring that flagship productions meet international standards, thereby enhancing the experience for both residents and tourists. ‘We can’t have substandard sound at major productions,’ Browne stated, underscoring the commitment to quality.
The proposed government-owned system would specifically target large-scale events, while private audio providers would continue to serve the small and medium-sized event market. This delineation aims to supplement rather than supplant existing private sector services, with the government taking responsibility for guaranteeing top-tier production value at the nation’s most prominent cultural showcases.