Arts Council Announces $500,000 Capital Investment in Cape Fear Regional Theatre to Drive Tourism and Visitation

Architect rendering of upgraded CFRT facility at 1209 Hay Street/Image Credit: Cape Fear Regional Theatre

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — The Board of Trustees of the Arts Council of

Fayetteville/Cumberland County has approved a $500,000 multi-year capital investment in

Cape Fear Regional Theatre (CFRT), reinforcing its commitment to arts-driven tourism,

economic impact, and increased visitation across Cumberland County.

The five-year investment will support CFRT’s ongoing Act 2 Capital Campaign, funding

critical facility improvements, expansion, and enhancements designed to elevate the visitor

experience and strengthen Fayetteville’s position as a regional cultural destination.

This strategic investment aligns with the Arts Council’s broader focus on leveraging the arts

as a driver of tourism and economic activity. According to the Arts & Economic Prosperity 6 study, nonprofit arts and culture audiences generate significant additional spending in local communities—on dining, lodging, transportation, and retail—underscoring the role of cultural assets like CFRT in attracting visitors from outside Cumberland County.

“Cape Fear Regional Theatre is one of the region’s premier cultural anchors, and this

investment is about more than a building—it’s about creating a destination,” said Robert C.

Pinson, President and CEO of the Arts Council. “By enhancing the theatre’s facilities and

capacity, we are strengthening Fayetteville’s ability to attract visitors, support local businesses, and position the arts as a central component of our tourism strategy.”

The capital support will fund improvements directly tied to audience growth and

experience, including renovations and infrastructure enhancements that allow CFRT to

expand programming, increase attendance, and host larger-scale productions. These

improvements are expected to drive increased visitation from both within and beyond the region.

The Arts Council Board’s decision reflects the organization’s long-term strategy to align

major funding decisions with community impact—particularly in areas where arts and

culture intersect with economic development and tourism.

For more information about the Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County and its

initiatives, visit www.theartscouncil.com.