Cultural Arts in Wilmington, NC

The nation's longest continuously operating community theater company makes its home in Wilmington, NC. At famed Thalian Hall and numerous other locations, professional and amateur actors contribute to Wilmington's thriving arts community which includes theater and other visual arts as well as film, dance, music, literary arts and much more.

Featured Local Businesses
Chamber Music Wilmington
Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts

Museums, Performance Halls and Organizations

Chamber Music Wilmington Wilmington Cultural Arts
PO Box 4717
Wilmington, NC 28406
(910) 343-1079

Chamber Music Wilmington (CMW) is a nonprofit classical series. The organization brings a variety of world-class artists and ensembles to southeastern North Carolina such as the Borromeo, Calidore and Ariel String Quartets, Zephyros Winds, pianist Aaron Diehl and flutist Chris Norman. Now in its 21st season, Chamber Music Wilmington performances are...more about Chamber Music Wilmington

Wilmington Symphony Orchestra Wilmington Cultural Arts
4608 Cedar Ave.
#105
Wilmington, NC 28403
(910) 791-9262

Founded in 1971, the Wilmington Symphony Orchestra is a cultural jewel in the Port City's crown, performing a series of concerts that enrich, entertain and educate thousands of adults and school children throughout the year. The musicians are local instrumentalists, gifted students and faculty, all who are selected by audition. The...more about Wilmington Symphony Orchestra

711 N. Fifth St.
Wilmington, NC
(910) 763-8010

An avant-garde renovation of an old warehouse is the perfect home for this artist-owned and operated studio. The working environment zings electric with artists running their drills, welding with their blowtorches and dueling airbrushes on bold mats of color. The gallery space is upgraded with track lighting, and opening exhibits are...more about Acme Art Inc.

3201 S. 17th St.
Wilmington, NC 28412
(910) 395-5999

The Cameron Art Museum is the only art museum in southeastern North Carolina. It regularly presents changing special exhibitions, lectures and programs. The museum occupies a 42,000-square-foot facility designed in 2002 by the renowned architectural firm of Gwathmey Siegel & Associates (NYC). Cameron Art Museum is sited on a 9.3-acre woodland...more about Cameron Art Museum

703 N. Third St.
Wilmington, NC 28401
(910) 362-7999

Prominently located at 700 N. Third St. at the northern entrance to historic downtown Wilmington, the CFCC Humanities and Fine Arts Center has quickly become one of the hottest tickets in town for year-round entertainment and cultural events.

With nearly 1,600 seats, the performance hall – the largest in the area –...more about Cape Fear Community College

815 Princess St.
Wilmington, NC 28401
(910) 343-5995

Nov. 13 - 17, 2013  - This fearless festival of independent film has brought a wide variety of movies and their makers to the Port City. A showcase for the best that creative filmmakers can offer, Cucalorus prides itself on a maverick approach to the festival concept. Organizers group like-minded shorts...more about Cucalorus Film Festival

1941 Ampitheater Drive
Greenfield Lake Park
Wilmington, NC 28401
(910) 332-0983

The Hugh Morton Amphitheater at Greenfield Lake is a 1,000-seat outdoor event venue nestled in the heart of Greenfield Lake Park, near downtown Wilmington. A great setting for concerts and theater alike, the amphitheater is also home to Cape Fear Shakespeare on the Green. When the weather's fine, come enjoy entertainment...more about Greenfield Lake Amphitheater

120 S. Second St.
Wilmington, NC 28401
(910) 341-7860

The Hannah Block Historic U.S.O./ Community Arts Center is located in the center of historic downtown. Primarily a learning facility where anyone may go to take low-cost lessons in a full range of disciplines, the center also serves as a rehearsal space for most of Wilmington's community theater groups. The Thalian...more about Hannah Block Historic U.S.O./ Community Arts Center

310 Chestnut St.
Wilmington, NC
(910) 343-3660

Built in 1858, this majestic performance center has gone through several restorations. A tenth renovation was begun in October of 2009 and offers three performance spaces. Housed within are a 675-seat main theater, the 225-seat Wilmington City Council Chamber and a 100-seat studio theater. With a lively local performing arts community...more about Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts

USO Building
2nd & Orange Streets
Wilmington, NC 28406
(910) 343-4370

Composed of professional and amateur visual artists and art enthusiasts, Wilmington Art Association (WAA) holds art shows throughout the year and conducts an annual juried exhibition, the Spring Juried Art Show and Sale, held during the Azalea Festival activities in April. Their gallery is located inside the Historic USO Building which...more about Wilmington Art Association

Music

Barbara McKenzie, Pianist Wilmington Cultural Arts
Wilmington, NC 28401
(910) 367-3495

Are you looking to advance your piano studies and love of music?  Barbara McKenzie, active performer, Chamber Music Wilmington founder and successful, supportive teacher, has openings for private students of all ages.

Known locally for her work with Chamber Music Wilmington as Artist in Residence and Artistic Director, Ms. McKenzie has established herself...more about Barbara McKenzie, Pianist

Wilmington Choral Society Wilmington Cultural Arts
PO Box 3771
Wilmington, NC 28406

This well-established chorale has been a presence in Wilmington since 1950. Attracting singers from Wilmingtom, Leland, Holden Beach, Supply, Carolina Beach, Hampstead, Topsail, and Wallace, NC, membership has grown to 108 voices in the past few years.  Members represent a cross-section of ages, professions, and interests.. The chorus prides itself on...more about Wilmington Choral Society

Wilmington Symphony Orchestra Wilmington Cultural Arts
4608 Cedar Ave.
#105
Wilmington, NC 28403
(910) 791-9262

Founded in 1971, the Wilmington Symphony Orchestra is a cultural jewel in the Port City's crown, performing a series of concerts that enrich, entertain and educate thousands of adults and school children throughout the year. The musicians are local instrumentalists, gifted students and faculty, all who are selected by audition. The...more about Wilmington Symphony Orchestra

Wilmington, NC
(910) 791-3846

Sweet Adelines promotes and preserves the art of singing acapella harmony, barbershop style. The Sweet Adelines meet on Mondays at 7 PM at the Wrightsville Beach Baptist Church. Membership is open to all women who enjoy this original American style of music....more about Azalea Coast Chorus of Sweet Adelines

Wilmington, NC 28401
(910) 350-8822

The Cape Fear Blues Society is one of the most successful music organizations in eastern North Carolina. The group offers musicians of all skill levels an opportunity to participate in weekly jam sessions and annual events, including an exciting blues talent competition held the first weekend in November. The CFBS also...more about Cape Fear Blues Society

Wilmington, NC 28406
(910) 233-2423

The Cape Fear Chorale has been performing in the Wilmington area since the fall of 1998 and presents concerts in the fall and spring of each year. The director, accompanist and more than 50 singers volunteer their time, talents and effort to provide quality choral music to the Cape Fear Region. New singers...more about The Cape Fear Chorale

Wilmington, NC
(910) 799-8455

This group is Wilmington's chapter of the Barber Shop Harmony Society. Members practice male four-part a cappella harmony singing weekly at 7:00 PM on Tuesday evenings at the Winter Park Baptist Church in Wilmington. New members are welcome; call for more information and a concert schedule....more about Cape Fear Chordsmen

2840 S. College Road
#247
Wilmington, NC 28412
(910) 960-7464

Carolina Vocal Arts Ensemble was founded in 2006 and is directed by Stephen Field. The ensemble is a friendly group of people of all ages and backgrounds who love to sing and have fun while approaching classical music with dedication and focus. With a diverse repertoire in multiple languages, including choral...more about Carolina Vocal Arts Ensemble

Wilmington, NC 28403
(910) 523-2975

The Field Studio offers private vocal instruction by Elizabeth Field and private piano instruction by Stephen Field. Both are classically trained, professional musicians with master's degrees in their respective areas. Steve has more than 20 years of experience teaching piano privately. He has been on faculty at the University of Connecticut...more about The Field Studio

Wilmington, NC 28409

Formed in 1997, this community-based choral ensemble has an enrollment of approximately 75 girls. Girls ages 9 and older perform a variety of classical, folk, sacred, secular and popular music. The members learn teamwork, discipline, musicianship and community service through the concerts and activities....more about Girls Choir of Wilmington

Wilmington, NC
(910) 799-5850

Formed in 1986, this local women's group sings four-part harmony a capella. Their performances for civic organizations, churches, nursing homes, conventions, educational programs in schools and at local events emphasize their philosophy of community service. Harmony Belles is open to new members; call for rehearsal location and membership information. The Belle...more about Harmony Belles

1416 Market St.
Wilmington, NC
(910) 762-9693

Music on Market Fine Arts Series provides quality, culturally diverse concerts for the members of St. Andrews-Covenant Presbyterian Church and the people of the greater Wilmington area. All concerts are free and open to the public. Concerts are underwritten by patrons and St. Andrews-Covenant Presbyterian Church. Concerts are held on specific...more about Music on Market Fine Arts

NC
(910) 962-3500

The Cape Fear Series of the North Carolina Symphony presents six concerts from September through May at Kenan Auditorium on the campus of UNC-Wilmington. For tickets, call the Kenan Auditorium Ticket Office at (910) 962-3500 or (800) 732-3643....more about North Carolina Symphony

155 Wintergreen
Wilmington, NC 28405
(910) 547-5711

Sara Westermark, a classically trained singer with a master's degree in Voice Performance from the University of Missouri-Columbia, offers private voice lessons for all ages. Sara is an active singer in this region and has appeared as a soloist with the Wilmington Symphony Orchestra, American Guild of Organists, Composerworks, Southeastern Oratorio...more about Westermark Voice Studio

Theater

Opera House Theatre Wilmington Cultural Arts
2011 Carolina Beach Rd.
Wilmington, NC
(910) 762-4234

A professional theater company presided over by artistic director Lou Criscuolo, this group stages six major productions each season at Thalian Hall. 2013 marks their 28th season in the Port City. Guest artists and directors are frequently featured. Auditions are open. Tickets are available through the Thalian Hall box office, (910)...more about Opera House Theatre

Wilmington, NC 28403
(910) 763-1889

Established in 1974 as a nonprofit organization specializing in dramas by minority playwrights, the Willis Richardson Players perform several works per season of interest to all audiences. Their name honors Wilmington born (1889-1977) playwright, director,, teacher and magazine contributor Willis Richardson. The group strives to promote, involve and educate residents of...more about Willis Richardson Players

Cape Fear Playhouse
613 Castle Street
Wilmington, NC 28401
(910) 367-5237

Now in its 17th year, this nonprofit theater company is dedicated to producing professional theater and cultivating excellence in the arts. It presents a mix of dramas and comedies each year, including their Fall Classic which is either a classic play or one based on a classic piece of literature. Local...more about Big Dawg Productions

Wilmington, NC 28401
(910) 251-1788

Founded in 1788, Thalian Association is the Official Community Theater of North Carolina. The association presents five full-scale productions annually at historic Thalian Hall, both plays and musicals. They have been honored as Wilmington's Best Theater Company for the past four years by the readers of encore magazine. Thalian Association Children's...more about Thalian Association Community Theatre

Dance

118 S. 17th St.
Wilmington, NC
(910) 763-4995

The Dance Cooperative is a nonprofit organization consisting of dance professionals who are bound together by one common goal — to nurture the dance community by providing affordable classes, rehearsal space and performance opportunities to those under-served artistically, culturally and economically in the greater Wilmington area. The Dance Cooperative currently has a program of classes...more about The Dance Cooperative

Wilmington, NC
(910) 458-3302

Theatre Dance Workshop is a place where singing, dancing and acting all come together. Classes in the performing arts are available for adults and children ages 7 and older. The students are part of senior and junior companies that perform original choreography, scenes and songs from Broadway shows....more about Theatre Dance Workshop

Writing

North Carolina Writers' Network, established in 1984, is a vital resource for North Carolina writers. This well-established organization helps writers sharpen their skills in poetry, fiction, nonfiction, playwriting and technical writing through statewide writer workshops and member services. The North Carolina Writers' Network also provides information and submission guidelines for statewide...more about North Carolina Writers' Network

Crafts

Rocky Point United Methodist Church
Rocky Point, NC

Members of this group work to stimulate public interest in the art of basketry and to preserve the techniques of the craft. Workshops and seminars are available, and new members, from novice to advanced weavers, are welcome....more about Port City Basketmakers

The Cotton Exchange
307 N. Front St.
Wilmington, NC 28401
(910) 763-7111

Port City Pottery & Fine Crafts brings a new dimension to the local art scene. This is the first gallery in Wilmington dedicated exclusively to handmade, one-of-a-kind, 3-dimensional art and crafts. Jury-selected coastal North Carolina artisans present decorative and functional works in clay, fiber wall hangings, decorative gourds, wearable fiber art,...more about Port City Pottery & Fine Crafts

Photography and Visual Arts

Belinda Keller Photography captures those moments you never want to forget. From darling photos of families, children, weddings and pregnant mothers to portraits and headshots, Belinda Keller is able to make time stand still through her beautiful photography. Bookings are available seven days a week (except holidays) and are taken organically...more about Belinda Keller Photography

Patricia Roseman Photography Wilmington Cultural Arts
Wilmington, NC 28401
(310) 766-6011

Patricia Roseman is a custom photographer living and working in two entertainment-industry epi-centers, Los Angeles and Wilmington. Working in the business on both the East and West Coasts for more than 20 years, Patricia has developed her method thoroughly, and as a result, her photographic abilities are perfect for any occasion....more about Patricia Roseman Photography

Peter Doran Fine Art Photography Wilmington Cultural Arts
740 Fort Fisher Blvd. N
Kure Beach, NC 28449
(910) 458-6893

Peter Doran's formal background in graphic design and painting, explains his skilled eye for capturing and composing Coastal North Carolina nature at its finest. With a BFA from the Rochester Institute of Technology in Graphic Design, and an Master's Degree from SUNY Buffalo in Painting, Peter's work is pleasing to view,...more about Peter Doran Fine Art Photography

Wilmington, NC 28409
(910) 620-1332

Joann Bristol believes that moving from a big-city environment to the Carolina coast was the best move she's ever made, and by looking at her amazing photographs, it's evident that the beach inspires this creative photographer. With images depicting her travels in Tuscany as well as local spots like Wrightsville Beach, Airlie...more about Joann Bristol Fine Art Photography

311 N. Front St.
Wilmington, NC 28401
(910) 762-4651

Artist John W. Golden captures remarkable images of the Cape Fear Coast with his digital SLR camera. Creating panoramic images of the downtown riverfront, Golden meshes history with modern technology. He also creates fantastic compilation prints highlighting architectural features of historic downtown Wilmington, the Carolina Beach boardwalk and other local hot...more about John W. Golden Photography

Wilmington, NC 28412
(910) 520-8283

Megan Deitz Photography, LLC (formerly Naturally Captured Studio, LLC) is located in Wilmington, NC, but serves all destinations worldwide. Megan Deitz Photogrpahy will take your important personal moments and turn them into visual art that will last a lifetime. The studio offers customized packages to suit clients' individual needs as well...more about Megan Deitz Photography, LLC

Film

Venues

3201 S. 17th St.
Wilmington, NC 28412
(910) 395-5999

The Cameron Art Museum occasionally hosts film screenings in addition to other interdisciplinary programs. With a broad array of subject matter and post-film commentary and discussion, the evening is typically a stimulating one. Check their calendar; they sometimes sponsor film events at other locations such as the Hannah Block Community Arts...more about Cameron Art Museum

Thalian Hall
310 Chestnut St.
Wilmington, NC
(910) 343-3664

Cinematique series offers film buffs an opportunity to catch movies that sidestep the multiplex. Presented through the combined efforts of WHQR and Thalian Hall, this series includes classic films, foreign flicks and limited-release gems. Cinematique often features speakers and other activities to coincide with the screenings. Movies are typically shown at...more about Cinematique of Wilmington

815 Princess St.
Wilmington, NC
(910) 520-4546

Not only does the Cucalorus film festival utilize historic Thalian Hall for its main screenings, it also show films at its headquarters, the magical Jengo's Playhouse. In addition to housing the Cucalorus offices, Jengo's features a 60-seat micro-cinema, technical facilities and an excellent back yard for post-movie chit-chat. Jengo's hosts an...more about Jengo's Playhouse at Independent Art Company

601 S. College Rd.
Wilmington, NC 28403
(910) 962-4045

This facility is an excellent addition to UNCW's cultural climate, offering students and residents an eclectic smorgasbord of cinema. From current theatrical blockbusters to quaint and unusual art-house flicks, Lumina Theater has something for every taste. With a capacity of 358 stadium seats and 9 wheelchair spaces and a full Dolby...more about Lumina Theater at UNCW

310 Chestnut St.
Wilmington, NC
(910) 343-3660

From its weekly Cinematique series to hosting the annual Cucalorus Film Festival and the Final Cut Film Festival, Thalian Hall has grown far beyond just an ordinary theater for live performances. With Wilmington's growth as a filmmaking capital, the hall has expanded its reach to include top-notch films typically unavailable in...more about Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts

Film Festivals

815 Princess St.
Wilmington, NC 28401
(910) 343-5995

This fearless festival of independent film has brought a wide variety of movies and their makers to the Port City. A non-competitive showcase for the best that creative filmmakers can offer, Cucalorus prides itself on a maverick approach to the festival concept. Organizers group like-minded shorts together in tidy blocks and...more about Cucalorus Film Festival

Cameron Art Museum, 3201 S. 17th St.
Wilmington, NC 28412
(910) 520-0775

This juried, invitational film festival celebrates independent motion pictures by African-American filmmakers, features shorts, animation, documentaries and feature films. The four-day festival in March is a welcome departure from your typical festival and offers films that are at once contemporary and historical. In a film-making town of Wilmington's magnitude, this extended...more about North Carolina Black Film Festival

 
 
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