State Minister for Education Alando Terrelonge has lauded the restoration team and other stakeholders, for work being done to rehabilitate the historic Ward Theatre, in Downtown Kingston.

Terrelonge was part of group of government officials that toured the theatre on Wednesday, for a first hand assessment of the restoration process.

Work is said to be advanced on the rehabilitation of the theatre, to facilitate its reopening in late 2020.

The state minster noted that in the past, the ward theatre provided a space for creatives to hone their skills and talents, and that this facility will again be available once it is restored and reopened.

Work started in 2017 and, to date, repairs have been completed on the roof, cafeteria, changing rooms and restrooms, the hospitality area, among others.

New windows and sound system have been installed and seating purchased.

The stage is the main area of work left to be done, with some $300 m earmarked for rebuilding and fitting the stage.