Dr. Gihan Zaki, Minister of Culture, conducted an extensive inspection tour of the National Cultural Center, the "Cairo Opera House," to assess the readiness of its facilities and the quality of services provided to the public. The visit underscores the Ministry’s commitment to upgrading this major cultural landmark to reflect its artistic and historical significance.
During the tour, the Minister visited the Opera’s three main stages—the Grand Theater, the Small Theater, and the Open-Air Theater—as well as the Cairo Opera Museum, reception halls, the Salah Taher Gallery for Fine Arts, and several administrative offices and dressing rooms. She reviewed current operating conditions, modernization plans, and the requirements of the staff.
Revitalizing the Musical and Visual Heritage
Dr. Zaki directed the immediate improvement of the facility’s efficiency and the modernization of several key sectors. Most notably, she ordered the development of a new museum display scenario for the Cairo Opera Museum. This new layout aims to highlight the Opera's rich history, linking its various art forms and historical icons while showcasing rare collectibles in a contemporary manner.
Furthermore, the Minister instructed the immediate removal of any visual clutter that detracts from the site’s unique architectural aesthetic. Her directives also included the restoration of fine art paintings, the unification of the visual identity of the halls and foyer, and the enhancement of lighting systems to showcase the venue's aesthetic and architectural character.
A Roadmap for Modernization
The Minister emphasized the necessity of working within a fast and defined timeframe to upgrade the Small and Open-Air theaters. She also announced an integrated plan to modernize audio and visual operating systems, coinciding with the upcoming renovation of the Grand Theater, which is being implemented through a cooperation protocol with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
A Beacon of Culture
"The current period demands intensified efforts to preserve and develop major cultural institutions in line with global standards for theater management," stated Dr. Gihan Zaki. She stressed that the Cairo Opera House remains one of Egypt’s most vital beacons of Soft Power, serving as a civilized gateway that reflects the depth and diversity of Egyptian arts.
The Minister concluded by stressing the importance of teamwork between various ministry sectors and relevant authorities to ensure that the development plan meets the highest technical standards, ultimately enhancing the audience's experience and providing cultural services worthy of the Opera's prestigious legacy.
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