October 23 Opening Set for Antigua's New Performing Arts Centre as Final Preparations Intensify
Technical testing and final cleaning are underway at the transformed former Deluxe Cinema building, which will accommodate approximately 850 people.
By Cory Wayland
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.
This story was first published by Antigua News on October 8, 2026: antigua.news/2026/10/08/october-23-opening-set-for-antigua-s-new-performing-arts-centre-as-final-preparations-intensify. © 2026 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.
About the author
Cory Wayland is the Social Media Co-ordinator at Antigua.News, where he manages digital content strategy, audience engagement, and real-time news publications across social platforms. With a keen eye for trending topics and a commitment to factual storytelling, Cory plays a key role in shaping the online voice of Antigua.News.
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