The project – which is part of the range of works of the Emergency Program for Integrated Infrastructures on the coast of Benguela – was considered by Adérito Tchiuca, director of the Damba Maria theater group, as a "great victory" for Benguela artists.
Speaking to Angop, the person in charge praised the fact that provincial governor Luís Nunes had introduced this infrastructure into the works program, which has brought new impetus and enthusiasm to the artistic class and the public.
Adérito Tchiuca also stated that Luís Nunes was the only one among the various governors who passed through Benguela in recent years to manage to recover, for the first time, this cine-theater, as well as the cine-esplanada Flamingo (Lobito), writes the Angop.
The director of the Damba Maria theater group also considered that the Monumental will not just be dedicated to theater. According to the person responsible, the infrastructure will also host a wide range of events, such as conferences, dance shows, music, etc.
He also highlighted the rehabilitation of the interior and exterior of the Monumental building, which will bring better working conditions for artists and also the restoration of the cine-esplanada Flamingo.
The inauguration of the Monumental took place in 1952. This is the oldest cinema in Benguela and has a total of 884 seats in the audience, 416 in the balcony, 16 screens and nine boxes.
According to Angop, the project is around 90 percent completed and aims to replace windows, doors, glass, chairs, among many other problems.
