Kumasi, Jan. 31, GNA - Mr Samuel Adjei, Director of the Centre for National Culture (CNC) in Kumasi, has expressed concern about the delay in the reconstruction of the 'Apatakesie', the theatre at the centre, which was started about three years ago.

He said the 1,500 capacity one-storey cult ural theatre, which was awarded on contract to ADOMPOK Construction Company at the cost of 3.5 billion cedis, started briskly for the first six months but came to a sudden halt due to lack of funds.

This situation, Mr Adjei said, was the cause of the delay in completing the theatre, which was seriously affecting cultural activities in Ashanti in general and Kumasi in particular. Speaking to the media in Kumasi on the matter, he said the lack of a theatre in Kumasi has forced the centre to bring to an abrupt end the popular 'Anokyekrom' and was also depriving drama groups the opportunity to perform.

The early completion of the project, he said, would enhance cultural development and attract tourists who visit Kumasi and explained that 'Dwabrem', another theatre at the centre cannot serve as an alternative since it was an open theatre, which cannot be used during the rainy season.

When contacted, the contractor said government was negotiating with foreign donors for funds for work on the project to continue.