The government is considering investing in a national sound and lighting system to support major events, as a new $20 million performing arts centre moves closer to completion.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne said during the Browne and Browne Show that the former Deluxe Cinema building is being transformed into a state-of-the-art performing arts facility, with completion expected by September or October this year.

In addition to the venue, the government has already purchased a large stage and is now weighing further investment in professional-grade sound and possibly lighting equipment to improve the quality of national productions, including Carnival and large-scale concerts.

Browne said the move is part of a broader push to “level up” the country’s creative sector and ensure that major events meet international standards.

“We can’t have substandard sound at major productions,” he said, adding that the goal is to enhance the experience for both residents and visitors.

While acknowledging that private sound providers will continue to service small and medium-sized events, the prime minister said the government has a responsibility to ensure that flagship productions deliver professional quality.

The initiative forms part of wider investments in the creative industries, aimed at strengthening the performing arts, integrating culture more fully into the tourism product and creating export opportunities for local talent.