Building technologist and broadcaster Kojo Akoto Boateng has proposed that Ghana’s National Theatre be demolished and rebuilt.
Chinese builders constructed the National Theatre in 1991 as a gift to Ghana, and it opened its doors in 1992. The National Theatre Law of 1991 (PNDC Law 259) governs the theatre. It offers a multipurpose space for screenplays, exhibitions, concerts, dance, drama, and musical performances, as well as special events.
Several people have expressed concerns about the structure since it was established more than 30 years ago. A recent Facebook post by Kojo Akoto Boateng raised an idea that has generated a lot of discussion.
“The National Theatre structure needs to be demolished and rebuilt. The new construction must be a multi-story structure with parking lots, galleries, shops, and residential space in addition to various-sized theatres. It’s a better use of the three and a half acres. “Let’s enter a joint venture and revamp this area if the state is unable to provide funding,” he wrote.
Although some have applauded his viewpoint, others believe demolishing the building is a bad idea.
“I think it is a good idea. If this government had fulfilled its pledge to construct at least one theatre in each region, pulling down the national theatre would not have been much of a challenge. What would be the short-term plan for the resident groups that rehearse and work permanently at the theatre? Probably we could treat the project under a certificate of urgency and give ourselves one year maximum to construct the new one. There are examples of construction works that were done in a short period and turned out to be of high standard. We can do it,” Nii OB writes on Facebook.
Nii Odartey Lamptey, another Facebook user, posted the following comment: “It’s been ten years since Trade Fair Kraaa was transformed, and still nothing has changed. Take a peek at that area over there.”
Nana Bonsu thinks Kojo’s suggestion is excellent. “He is correct. If my memory serves me correctly, the building is more than 20 years old, and its design is dated and genuinely devoid of many amenities. When rebuilding or renovating, we can use more contemporary engineering and designs appropriate for an arts venue. I believe that whichever government agency oversees the arts ought to consider his proposal.”
Rof Roc is one more person who doesn’t agree with Kojo. On Facebook, he posted: “It shouldn’t be taken down. Why are we Ghanaians demolishing things when it’s a national monument that requires significant restoration and expansion rather than demolition? To help the arts in Kumasi and Tamale, they ought to construct a new one there as well.”
Criticism has been levelled at the National Theatre’s management for what have been called unfavourable conditions there.
There have been complaints from some that the theatre’s air conditioning system is not operating at its best. Among other things, others have mentioned the lack of a stand-by generator as a problem that requires immediate attention.
Artists including Kojo Antwi, Chief Moomen, Fiifi Coleman, and the late Nana Kwame Ampadu have voiced their displeasure with the building and its operations.
