The Ghana National Theatre is set to undergo extensive renovations intended to transform the prominent cultural landmark into a modern facility that meets current production standards and provides internationally competitive creative experiences.
After more than thirty years as a central hub for Ghana’s performing arts, the theatre now faces infrastructural and technical challenges that impede the effective functioning of several systems and departments. The planned refurbishment aims to address these deficiencies and restore the facility to its former prominence.
A delegation from the Chinese government recently convened with the leadership of the National Theatre, the Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, ministry directors, and architects to discuss the scope of work, following a tour of the facility for an initial assessment.
Henry Herbert Malm, the Executive Director of the National Theatre, characterised the renovation as a vital step towards enhancing the theatre’s ability to produce high-quality performances. He stated that the proposed enhancements would modernise technical facilities, enhance safety standards, and create a more comfortable environment for performers, staff, and audiences alike.
“This renovation signifies our dedication to remaining relevant in a swiftly changing creative industry,” he remarked.
Madam Abla Dzifa Gomashie, the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, conveyed her enthusiasm that the long-awaited plan to refurbish the theatre was finally materialising. She praised the Chinese government for its commitment to supporting the initiative, highlighting that the agreement was established during President John Dramani Mahama’s recent five-day visit to China at the invitation of President Xi Jinping.
She stated that the National Theatre has remained a vital platform for both domestic and international cultural collaboration and education, noting that the renovation would provide opportunities for talented individuals to display and enhance their skills.
“We are relying on robust collaboration with the government and citizens of China, and we anticipate that this renovation will come to fruition in a very short period,” she remarked.
The head of the Chinese delegation, Mr Li Yaohong, indicated that Ghana’s rich cultural heritage and its importance in West Africa were the reasons behind China’s initial construction of the National Theatre and its current agreement to refurbish it. He revealed that the Chinese government has pledged $30 million, equivalent to ¥200 million, to support two initiatives—the National Theatre and an off-road market.
“Our budget is constrained, so we suggest that you prioritise the most urgently required sections of the building. Our headquarters in Beijing will dispatch a technical team to Ghana to assess further details,” Mr Yaohong stated.
Key areas earmarked for refurbishment include the various halls and stages, storage areas, air-conditioning systems, safety features such as fencing and CCTV, modern firefighting equipment, and a comprehensive facelift of the entire premises.
The National Theatre was built under an agreement signed on July 5, 1989. Construction commenced on March 8, 1990, and was finalised on December 16, 1992, with official inauguration on December 30, 1992.
The facility was designed to lead Ghana’s theatre movement by offering a multi-functional venue for concerts, dance, drama, musical performances, exhibitions, and special events. It currently accommodates three resident companies—the National Dance Company, the National Symphony Orchestra, and the National Drama Company.
