After planning a move to Mirdif City Centre, the Dubai Community Theatre and Arts Centre (DUCTAC) in Mall of the Emirates announced it will instead close down permanently.

In a statement published on its social media accounts, it cited the inability to find another ‘suitable’ location as the reason for the closure.

“Earlier this year, we began looking for a new home better suited to the changing needs of our customers and patrons. We have been working diligently to locate alternative premises that would offer our customers and patrons and enhanced DUCTAC experience that reflects the evolution of the creative and arts community. Unfortunately, we were unable to find a suitable location. As a result, we have taken the difficult decision to close our current facilities,” the statement said.

We will continue to support arts and culture in the UAE through other avenues and hope to provide our community with upgraded experiences at our assets in the future,” it continued

DUCTAC was the first non-profit community arts centre in the gulf, consisting of two theatres, a gallery and dance and art studios. It also featured Dubai’s oldest English language library.

Founded in 2006, it housed dance school Sharmila Dance, which trains 7 year olds through to adults to become professional performers. The school revealed earlier it is relocating to Al Barsha 1, with a temporary studio currently located in Palais De Danse in Al Quoz.

“After 12 glorious years at Ductac we shift our office and wardrobe to the new location in Al Barsha 1! Sharmila Dance Center is on its way!!” it said on its Instagram account.

The announcement of DUCTAC’s closure comes a few months after the Dubai International Film Festival revealed it will not take place in 2018, though it is expected to return in 2019.

Source : www.arabianbusiness.com