The Lord Kitchener (Aldwyn Roberts) Auditorium at the National Academy for the Performing Arts (NAPA), which falls under the purview of the Ministry of the Arts and Multiculturalism, is one of the principal national performance spaces in Trinidad and Tobago.

While the Ministry has been conducting routine maintenance of this facility, concerns related to the overall safety of the auditorium initiated an on-site inspection by the Occupational Safety and Health Authority.

Following the inspection, access was prohibited to two catwalks within the main theatre which impacts upon the staging of shows in that area. As a result, it has become necessary to close the main theatre of the auditorium until the related issues are adequately addressed.

The Ministry apologises to all those who have been negatively affected by this temporary closure. Staff members of the auditorium have informed all affected event producers and have been assisting, where possible, in securing alternative performance venues.

The Ministry of the Arts and Multiculturalism takes seriously its responsibility to the performers, patrons, employees and all stakeholders. While we understand the concerns, fears and questions that may have arisen about this unfortunate closure, the safety and well-being of all stakeholders remains the first priority.