ORANJESTAD, St. Eustatius – The restoration of the historic Madam Theatre officially began on Thursday with the start of demolition works at the site. The project is being carried out under the Region Deal programme and marks the first phase of the long-planned redevelopment of the cultural landmark.
Local contractor Canwood Enterprise N.V. has started clearing the site in preparation for construction. Later this year, work will move to the installation of a new structural steel frame, designed and installed by Thinking Steel International BV, with installation targeted for July 2026. The structures are designed to withstand Caribbean climate conditions.
As part of the preparatory phase, Independent Consulting Engineers (ICE BV) will conduct soil investigations this month to support the final foundation design. Once completed, contractors will be selected to begin the main construction works. The Region Deal aims to have the outer shell of the building completed by early Q4 2026.
Community consultation
The final design of the project was shaped in part by earlier community consultations. The restoration is intended to give Madam Theatre a renewed role as a venue for arts, culture and community activities.
