KARACHI, Oct 6: The first ever theatre project of the Arts Council of Pakistan is nearing completion and will be handed over to the council in November.

A grant-in-aid of Rs60 million had been announced by President Pervez Musharraf for the project, half of which was to be paid by Sindh and the remaining by the federal government.

The theatre has a built-in area of 26,439 sq-ft, basement of 4,564 sq-ft, ground floor area of 16,935 sq-ft, first floor of 3,295 sq-ft and second floor area of 1,645 sq-ft.

The theatre has been equipped with facilities which include sound recording and background sound, TV recording, emergency lighting, fire alarm and fire fighting system, backdrop changing facilities, car parking for artists etc.

The ground floor area has a 450-seat capacity hall, 26x40 ft main stage area, two side wings with adjustable mechanical arrangements, a make-up room, waiting lounge, foyer area, lobbies etc. The stage for open air functions is equipped with sound and lighting facilities. - APP