KINGSTON, Jamaica — Mayor of Kingston Delroy Williams today toured the historic Ward Theatre in downtown Kingston, to determine what is required to rehabilitate the Kingston landmark.

According to a news release from the Kingston and St Andrew Corporation (KSAC), some US$6 million is needed to restore the historic venue, which includes authentic decor and fittings, as well as air conditioning and other infrastructure.

The release said Williams will be appointing an advisory panel with the required expertise to expedite the restoration, which has languished for some time.

The initiative forms part of efforts to fast-track the redevelopment and rebranding of the capital city.

Williams noted that the historic and creative values of Kingston must be leveraged and said he believes that more emphasis should be placed on Kingston as a world leader in sport, tourism and other aspects of Jamaica’s culture such as its heritage sites, music and food.

He noted that Kingston could be the capital city of the Caribbean if all stakeholders work together.