The Ghana National Theatre is set for a comprehensive renovation aimed at upgrading the iconic cultural landmark into a modern, world-class creative facility that meets contemporary production and performance standards.

The theatre, which has been at the heart of Ghana’s performing arts scene for over 30 years, is currently grappling with ageing infrastructure and outdated technical systems that have affected the efficiency of several departments. The planned refurbishment is expected to address these challenges and restore the facility to optimal condition.

A delegation from the Chinese government recently held discussions with the leadership of the National Theatre, the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, officials from the ministry, and architects, following a detailed inspection of the facility to assess the scope of work required.

Executive Director of the National Theatre, Henry Herbert Malm, described the renovation as a crucial intervention to enhance the theatre’s ability to deliver high-quality productions. He noted that the upgrades would modernise technical equipment, improve safety standards and create a more comfortable environment for performers, staff and audiences.

“This renovation reflects our commitment to staying relevant in a rapidly evolving creative industry,” he said.

Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Madam Abla Dzifa Gomashie, welcomed the progress, expressing excitement that the long-anticipated refurbishment was finally becoming a reality. She praised the Chinese government for its support, explaining that the agreement was reached during President John Dramani Mahama’s recent five-day official visit to China at the invitation of President Xi Jinping.

She emphasised the National Theatre’s continued importance as a platform for local and international cultural exchange, adding that the renovation would create new opportunities for artists to showcase and further develop their talents.

“We are counting on strong collaboration with the government and people of China, and we expect that in a very short time this renovation will see the light of day,” she stated.

Leader of the Chinese delegation, Mr Li Yaohong, said Ghana’s rich cultural heritage and its strategic importance in West Africa motivated China’s initial construction of the National Theatre and its renewed commitment to refurbish the facility. He announced that the Chinese government had pledged $30 million, equivalent to about ¥200 million, to support two projects—the National Theatre renovation and an off-road market.

“Our budget is limited, so we propose that you prioritise the most urgently needed parts of the building. Our head office in Beijing will send a technical team to Ghana to assess further details,” Mr Yaohong said.

The proposed renovation will focus on key areas including performance halls and stages, storage facilities, air-conditioning systems, safety infrastructure such as fencing and CCTV, modern firefighting equipment, and a general facelift of the entire compound.

The National Theatre was built under an agreement signed on July 5, 1989. Construction began on March 8, 1990, and was completed on December 16, 1992, with the facility officially commissioned on December 30, 1992.

Designed as a multi-functional cultural hub, the National Theatre hosts concerts, dance, drama, musical performances, exhibitions and special events. It is home to three resident companies—the National Dance Company, the National Symphony Orchestra and the National Drama Company.