Traversing modernist memory - Investigating, documenting and representing cultural heritage values and public memory of Uganda National Cultural Centre and Theatre

Abstract

Since the 1950s the theories of Modern architecture have been widely applied as a tool to reform collective public memory from colonial to post-colonial experience and to build the new republics of Africa. Peatfield and Bodgener’s Uganda National Cultural Centre and Theatre (UNCC) built in 1959 is an outstanding example of what is often referred as “Architecture of Independence”. This European-style theatre and proscenium arch, built on Modernist principles of functionality and materiality, would seem to be an aesthetic paradox in the East African context. The building would be perceived as an alien if it was not for the distinctive culture of public memory surrounding it, supported by embedded stories of transition, non-violent resistance and peace-building in the post-colonial period. Although the UNCC embodies freedom of expression for generations of local artists and theatre scholars, this narrative has been overlooked by those who manage the building today.

The threat of demolition and high rise redevelopment is the recent story of UNCC and most well-known for the Modern Movement enthusiasts. The international alert issued by Docomomo discussed the importance of keeping the building, but little has been said about of what the structure represents culturally. Simultaneously, the group of local artists have been protesting, trying to emphasize the importance of UNCC as a carrier of a strong historical meaning.

This thesis based on the collection of stories and personal archives of theatre practitioners, academics, architects and users draws attention to UNCC as a transitional space of peace-building and expression. It investigates both tangible and intangible cultural heritage values of UNCC. Accordingly, it argues that the building with almost sixty years of history, emerging together with independent Uganda can not be perceived as just an architectural monument but a living organism of a public memory. Following the research findings, the final part of this thesis is dedicated to the preservation of UNCC. With the support of cautious spatial interventions the intangible cultural values are given form through the practice of revitalization. In this manner, alternative design with focus on cultural significance of UNCC is produced to challenge the current profit driven redevelopment plans of the area.