China to build performing art theatre complex

Nadira Gunatilleke

COLOMBO: Discussions held between Cultural Affairs Minister Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena and Chinese Cultural Affairs Minister Sun Jiazheng recently during Minister Abeywardena’s visit to China were very fruitful and strengthens the cordial relationship between the two countries, Cultural Affairs Ministry sources said.

Chinese Cultural Affairs Minister Sun Jiazheng had stated that China will always remember the support rendered by Sri Lanka in their early years of development and that Sri Lanka will always remain a good neighbour and partner of China, sources said.

As a result of this tour the project on building a National Performing Arts Theatre Complex will be finalised and commenced soon. The agreement for building this centre is already signed by the two countries, the sources added.

This performing arts theatre complex would have a seating capacity of 1288 seats and 780 of them will be for spectators, 153 box capacity and 30 seats for VIPs. The final design of the theatre complex has already been cleared and now the architects are working towards finalising the design drawings. Construction drawings will be completed by the end of June.

According to the Chinese authorities the construction work of this theatre complex is expected to commence in October, this year and it will symbolise the blooming of a flower, which indicates prosperity for the country, its economy and culture.