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Arts centre enhancement project launched

Moresby Arts Centre is undergoing a redevelopment aimed at enhancing the centre’s capacity as a hub for performing and creative arts in Papua New Guinea. 

The Arts Centre Enhancement Project, supported by Australia’s Incentive Fund, was launched on Thursday, 27 February 2025, with a groundbreaking ceremony at the Arts Centre in Port Moresby.

With funding support of PGK 11.3 million from the Incentive Fund, the centre will see the construction of a new rehearsal/lecture hall and upgrade theatre infrastructure, including lighting and sound. The upgrade will also include the refurbishment of the pottery barn for pottery art creation. The centre will also have improved access to Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WaSH) facilities for staff and visitors.

The new and upgraded facilities are aimed at enhancing the Arts Centre’s capacity to engage in arts education in Papua New Guinea and will enable greater access by women, young people, and people with disabilities to the performing arts.

Moresby Arts Theatre is one of the oldest clubs in Port Moresby, established in 1912. The theatre continues to support the arts industry in PNG and ensures the preservation of Papua New Guinea’s unique, diverse and contemporary culture through the art of storytelling, music and dance. The existing theatre was purpose-built in 1974, and the upgrade will give it a new look and feel for members and other theatregoers.

Australia’s Minister Counsellor for Economic, Health and Infrastructure Cate Rogers said, “Australia’s investment in MAT is a fitting tribute to the long history of cultural and creative exchange between our two nations. As PNG prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary, this project is a symbol of our shared commitment to supporting PNG’s development of its artists and its future leaders.”

Moresby Arts Theatre with its new and improved facilities will improve production quality and promote greater use of the facility by the community, as well as increase opportunities for creative collaboration with a range of other organisations, including schools. It provides better health and safety, security and transport for members, visitors and staff alike, and achieves enhanced experience for all users of the facility.

“The new and upgraded facilities will enable the Moresby Arts Theatre to implement its expanding arts education programmes including the Youth Arts Programme, production and technical training, drama classes, and craft/pottery classes. Young people will be able to increasingly participate in the life of the theatre, including shows, craft markets, club night performances and movie nights,” President Bob Stanley said.