Coordination meeting: Meeting on upgrading of Waziya Cinema held

A coordination meeting regarding the upgrading of the Waziya Cinema in Yangon was held at the meeting hall of the Ministry of Information in Nay Pyi Taw on August 5. At the meeting, the Union Minister U Maung Maung Ohn first explained that the original name of Waziya Cinema was "Excelsior " and that during the Japanese occupation it was renamed "Yangon Cinema."

In 1968, it was nationalized and became known as "Waziya Cinema." He stated that the original architecture of Waziya Cinema follows the Beaux-Arts architectural style, which blends French architectural elements from the 16th to 18th centuries, featuring decorative sculptures and ornate embellishments. He added that the Waziya Cinema will be upgraded and preserved as an international-standard Red Carpet Theatre.

While upgrading the building, care must be taken not to alter its original architectural design, while also enhancing its grandeur. The cinema’s air conditioning, lighting, and screening systems will be modernized while preserving the original design.

As the building represents the national image, collaboration with relevant ministries and departments will be carried out for the renovation. Waziya Cinema will be developed not only as a movie theater but also as a multi-purpose venue for theatrical performances, puppetry, dance, music concerts, forums, meetings, training schools, studios, and other creative arts. It will also serve as a venue for international film festivals, cinema-related commemorative events, and festivals such as the Memory Film Festival.

The Union Minister called for collective collaboration to ensure the success of this upgrade. Deputy Minister U Ye Tint followed with a discussion on efforts to upgrade Waziya Cinema into a cinema of international standards. Then, the Director General of the Information and Public Relations Department explained the historical background and architectural significance of the Waziya Cinema, the planned activities for the upgraded theater, the implementation process, and the expected benefits.

Attendees then discussed and presented suggestions regarding necessary renovations to the structure, architectural techniques, audio system upgrades, film screening systems, stage setups, replacement of seating with modern options, construction of parking spaces, and the systematic layout of pedestrian walkways to meet international standards. Finally, the Union Minister summarized and coordinated the suggestions presented and delivered the closing remarks.