A question for the Congolese forumers, is there a national theater or preforming arts center in Kinshasa? I know there is the Kimbanguist Symphony Orchestra, so is there some dedicated concert hall?

Good question. The answer is: currently no. There used to be one within the People’s Palace complex (capacity: ca 1,000 seats). Unfortunately, the whole complex was converted to parliament, as the old parliament building became cramped due to the increase in the number of deputies and senators as a result of the democratization process. Currently, a much smaller theatre called “La Halle de la Gombe” is used as a venue for cultural events, including concerts. A project to build a bigger and modern theatre is the pipeline. However, I wouldn’t stick my neck out and give a construction time frame.

The former national theatre

http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l606/Mwanamayi/triomphalnuit80.jpg?t=1299501713

I see, that's a shame. So the whole parliament building was meant to be a theatre?

I see, that's a shame. So the whole parliament building was meant to be a theatre?

Actually, it was meant to be a huge multipurpose cultural centre. It consisted of 3 theatres (capacity: 1,000; 500; 500 seats), a huge ballroom, conference rooms, offices, etc.

Actually, it was meant to be a huge multipurpose cultural centre. It consisted of 3 theatres (capacity: 1,000; 500; 500 seats), a huge ballroom, conference rooms, offices, etc.

Oh wow, that must have been great.

Oh wow, that must have been great.

Yes, it was. The authorities should have anticipated the situation and build a new parliament instead of commandeering this cultural landmark. In a city full of cultural life like Kinshasa, the current situation has created a pervasive frustration, if not anger, with the state which is perceived to be failing the people.

http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l606/Mwanamayi/5228254451_2e4bb503db_b.jpg?t=1299584627

They need tp build a new parliament and return this thing to the people.

They need tp build a new parliament and return this thing to the people.

It should be the role of the Minister for Cultural Affairs to press for a swift construction of either a new parliament building or a new a cultural centre at least as big and sophisticated as the one despoiled by the politicians. However, judging by the incompetence of the current Minister, this will not happen any time soon. What the country needs is a government made of result-oriented technocrats, not politicians whose sole goal it is to plunder the public purse.

There isn't a single technocrat in this government. In the whole country, only Moise is.

Having a Technocrat president (Who would surround himself with Technocrats advisors), would cure lots obstacles caused by current blind policians.