The new VUDA Gurajada Kalakshetram constructed at a cost of ₹10 crore with modern amenities and sound system is ready for inauguration. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu will inaugurate it during his visit to the city on Wednesday.
The popular open-air auditorium now will have a poly carbonate roof-top imported from Israel, electronic screen and high quality sound system. The roof work started in March 2016 also taking into consideration the impact of cyclones particularly in the light of the 2014 Hudhud cyclone.
Various sound systems have been tried out before zeroing in the one that has good acoustics for the theatre and even takes the quality of sound during rain, says VUDA Vice-Chairman P. Basanth Kumar.
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The seating in the beginning was planned for 3,000. But finally it was decided to replace the cement benches with modern seating. As a result, the capacity is now 2,300.
With changes to improve the auditorium, the cost has shot up from the initial estimate of ₹ 5.7 crore to ₹10 crore. Mr. Basanth Kumar says making money from the auditorium was not the intention and the fee will be nominal to cover maintenance costs.
“We intend to promote literary and cultural activities by providing the venue for dramas, poetry recitations, mushariyas and sufi music etc.,” he elaborates.
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VUDA intends to host national and international level cultural programmes at the venue.