THE National Cultural Centre (NCC) will receive a much needed boost as government embarks on a drive to improve systems at Guyana’s premier cultural facility.

This declaration was made yesterday by Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Dr. Frank Anthony, as he addressed participants and patrons attending the opening of the National Drama Festival at the NCC.
Dr. Anthony stated that some $10M will be spent this year to change the present lighting at the NCC to a digital system. He also emphasised the importance of having adequate staff to maintain and care for the new systems that will be put in place at the NCC.
Towards this end, the minister stated that new and responsible staffers will be employed, while efficient workers at the NCC will also be trained in this aspect.
The minister said that not so long ago works were carried out to fix the sound system. And next week a tender would be put out in order to acquire capable technicians as the ministry moves to replace all the air conditioning systems in the building.
At the NCC yesterday, organisers opted to leave the doors open for fresh air and the minister explained that this course of action was taken because some of the air conditioning units at the facility were not in working order.
Patrons, promoters and organisers hosting entertainment events at the venue have complained of the uncomfortable humidity in the building, which made it impossible for members of the audience to enjoy shows in comfort.
At the recently concluded Mr. and Miss Guyana Talented Teen Pageant, and the GT&T Jingles and Song Competition hosted at the NCC, patrons had loudly protested against the “not working’ air conditioning units.
Their protests in both cases were met by nods of agreement and ‘blank stares’ from NCC staffers.

(By Alex Wayne)