Fernandez Eyes Visitor Shows at New Performing Arts Centre
Charles Fernandez sees visitor performances at the National Performing Arts Centre as a way to showcase culture and support the venue’s upkeep.
Tourism Minister Charles Fernandez has identified the National Performing Arts Centre as a new opportunity to connect Antigua and Barbuda’s cultural talent with the tourism industry.
Speaking ahead of the October 23 opening, Fernandez said the venue could accommodate shows featuring local dancers, steelpan musicians and other cultural performers for visiting audiences.
He said such programming could showcase national identity while generating income to help support the centre’s upkeep.
Fernandez noted that travellers increasingly seek experiences, creating an opportunity for the country to make its culture a more visible part of its tourism offering.
He also suggested the building could attract cruise visitors exploring St. John’s, even before they attend a performance.
The minister described the transformation of the former Deluxe Cinema as remarkable and reflected on the site’s longstanding association with entertainment.
He said earlier discussions about government use of the property had involved a lease, before the Prime Minister and then culture minister Daryll Matthew pursued ownership to allow its transformation.
Fernandez also welcomed the planned development of neighbouring space for studio and artistic training purposes.
He credited the cooperation of several ministries and agencies, while giving particular recognition to Minister Rawdon Turner for leading delivery of the project.
The Tourism Minister said the centre’s opening had created a new platform through which Antigua and Barbuda could share its culture with the world.
This story was first published by Antigua News on : antigua.news/2026/10/25/fernandez-eyes-visitor-shows-at-new-performing-arts-centre. © 2026 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.
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Comments (1)
Noname October 25, 2026, 10:06 AM
Fernandez eyes visitor? Word that properly
Reply