Constructed with the expertise from China at a cost of Rs.3.08 billion, and gifted by the People’s Republic of China, the Theatre was declared open by President Mahinda Rajapaksa and Zhang Meiying, Vice Chairwoman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference of the People’s Republic of China.

Addressing the gathering, Ms. Meiying stated that the Theatre was the symbol of the friendship between China and Sri Lanka in the new era. She expressed confidence that Sri Lanka will achieve progress in every field under the leadership of President Rajapaksa. China and Sri Lanka are very good friends and partners, she added.

Expressing his views, the President noted that if a theatre like this had been constructed several decades ago, a large number of artistic productions might have been possible. A great citizen does not simply emerge. Such a personality needs to entail the potential for delight and wisdom, he said.

The President expressed his gratitude to the Government of China for gifting this Theater to Sri Lanka with the purpose of improving the imaginative power, self-confidence and self-discipline of the nation’s children.

The ceremony was attended by First Lady Shiranthi Rajapaksa, Prime Minister D.M. Jayaratne, Speaker Chamal Rajapaksa, Minister of Culture and Aesthetic Affairs T. B. Ekanayake, a special delegation form China, diplomats, artists and a large gathering.