Arts Council announces $500,000 capital investment in Cape Fear Regional Theatre to drive tourism and visitation

By Staff Report, posted May 12, 2026 on BizFayetteville.com

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

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, 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 President and CEO of the Arts Council Robert C. Pinson in a press release. “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.

The Arts Council Board’s decision reflects the organization’s long-term strategy to align major funding decisions with community impact.

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