WILLEMSTAD - The iconic Sentro Pro Arte building is set to be demolished, confirmed Minister Sithree van Heydoorn. This long-awaited move is part of a broader plan to redevelop the area for a new national theater initiative led by opera singer Tania Kross and her foundation, Nos Teatro Kòrsou.
Minister van Heydoorn reiterated his support for the project, which envisions a modern venue in Punda to replace the old theater, which has fallen into disrepair after being abandoned and damaged by fire.
Earlier this week, confusion arose after a Papiamentu-language newspaper reported that Ingelor Juliènne Keller had been appointed as the new director of Sentro Pro Arte. The report further suggested that Keller's mission was to rebuild the theater on the same site.
Addressing this issue, the minister clarified, “There will be no new director; the lady in question is a commissioner and is temporarily assuming the role of director until the proper corporate governance procedures are completed.” He added that the primary focus of the management team at this stage is the demolition of the building.
The demolition marks a significant step in the revitalization of the area, which has long been a key location for cultural events. The new theater, once built, is expected to be a cornerstone for the island’s cultural growth and a symbol of modernity for the city.