Construction of the addition to the Latvian National Theatre, originally scheduled for completion by autumn 2028, is now facing a delay as the Riga municipality has requested an extension of eight years. This delay stems from the impact of the geopolitical situation and the need for the state to divert more funds to civil protection infrastructure. As a result, the total costs of the project, which are estimated to exceed 39 million euros before tax, could risk becoming ineffective if construction does not commence by March 2029.

The initial plans for the theatre’s expansion included a new hall for approximately 350 spectators, along with workshops and a new rehearsal space, to be built in the area where outdoor tennis courts currently exist. In 2019, a competition was held for the design of the addition, which was won by the architectural firm SIA "AB3D". The significant alterations in funding priorities highlight the pressure that local governments are facing and raise concerns about the viability of cultural projects in the context of national budget reallocations.

This situation reflects not only the local aspects of public infrastructure projects but also the broader implications of policy decisions at the national level, which can significantly impact cultural development. As the government prioritizes civil defense over cultural investments, it raises questions about the future landscape of the arts in Latvia, particularly how artists and institutions will adapt to the shifting funding environment and the emphasis on security-related expenditures.