Work on Arts Academy to begin in new year

The academy will be part of the University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT) and plans for the academy include two theatres, one seating 1,200 persons and the other, 500 persons.

Williams also spoke of the upgrade and expansion of the Naparima Bowl, the completion of Pan Trinbago’s headquarters in Trincity, the expansion of the museum and the development of the heritage site on Nelson Island. The Culture Minister said all of these projects signified more than just Government’s commitment to satisfy the high demand for venues for our local artistes, but also to develop and conform to the high international standards where facilities are concerned.

Astra Da Costa, who was appointed chairman of the Board at Queen’s Hall just ten months ago, said that the TT$3.2 million contract with Alpha Engineering Ltd for the implementation of the second stage of refurbishing the hall will see a welcome face-lift to the building’s environment. That project will include refurbishment of the outdoor stage, landscaping and the resurfacing of car park areas.

Using the draft of the site plan, architect Colvin Chen of Gillespie and Steel Ltd gave a complete overview of the Phase II project. However, he stressed that the hall will remain open and operational throughout the six-month exercise, and that all obligations to those who have booked the facility will be met for the period.

To minimise the inconvenience when the repaving of the car park is taking place, the board has made arrangements to use neighbouring car parks and have patrons bussed to the hall. Da Costa also took the opportunity to inform the minister of the hall’s Phase III plans that will see the construction of an administration building and related support facilities to provide proper office space for staff.