Revitalising a Cultural Icon: Incentive Fund Supports Moresby Arts Centre Upgrades
On 12 September 2025, the Moresby Arts Centre officially opened its newly upgraded facilities, marking a significant milestone in Papua New Guinea’s cultural development.
Australian High Commissioner, Mr Ewen McDonald joined Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture Hon. Belden Namah, Member for Moresby Northwest Hon. Lohia Boe Samuel and Moresby Arts Theatre President Bob Stanley to officially open the new facilities.
The PGK 11.3 million redevelopment – funded through Australia’s Incentive Fund–has transformed the Centre’s infrastructure, enabling it to expand its role as a leading provider of performing and creative arts education for Port Moresby’s young people.
Hon. Belden Namah acknowledged the historical significance of the Moresby Arts Theatre, which has served the community since before Papua New Guinea’s independence.
“It is timely that Australia has given this wonderful, wonderful structure, and we thank the Australian government for their continued support. Your efforts and investments now place this institution on a secure path to stand tall for the next 50 years,” he said.
The upgrades include a new rehearsal and lecture hall, improved production facilities, and enhanced water, sanitation and hygiene amenities. These improvements are designed to increase accessibility to the performing arts, particularly for women, young people, and people with disability.
Australian High Commissioner Ewen McDonald highlighted the broader impact of the redevelopment. “We’ve partnered with the PNG government to support the theatre’s redevelopment through the Incentive Fund. The improved theatre will expand its partnership with schools, universities and arts organisations to offer more education programs and collaborations.”
“It will provide new platforms for emerging talent, strengthening the performance art sector and the creative economy. And it is quality infrastructure that is built to last,” he said.
Moresby Arts Theatre President Bob Stanley reflected on the centre’s history.
“Since rebuilding in Waigani in 1974, around 300 shows have been performed here. Altogether, since 1912, there have been many more. The continuous viability of the theatre has been solely due to the efforts of Moresby Arts Theatre members,” he said.
“We thank the Australian Government for giving us a new look and feel that will take us into the future.
For over a century the Moresby Arts Theatre has provided a stage for storytelling, creativity and community in Port Moresby and across Papua New Guinea. With its upgraded facilities, it is now better equipped to continue that legacy for generations to come.
