CFCC’s Wilson Center Announces Launch of New Mission Program – HelloArts!

The Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College (CFCC) is excited to announce the launch of its new mission-driven engagement initiative, HelloArts! Inspired by rising community interest and regional needs, this program aims to provide widespread ticket access for community non-profits, underserved populations, and families. Additionally, it will offer enhanced training for various careers within the entertainment industry.

“As we close in on our 10th year, we are thrilled to be able to give back to our neighbors in an even bigger way,” said Zachary Pluer, Executive Director of CFCC’s Wilson Center. “As a locally controlled theater, we take our commitment to this community very seriously. Through HelloArts! we’re taking our mission – providing the best possible experience, at the best value, to as many people as possible – to a whole new level. We are prepared to match all individual and corporate donations to this flagship program to ensure everyone who walks through those doors can simultaneously see a great show and give back.”

Previously known as Broadway for a Better World, the new HelloArts! ticket giveback program allows qualifying non-profits and tax-exempt organizations to apply for free-of-charge tickets to any Wilson Center show. This increased funding will also subsidize student tickets to shows included in the soon to-be-announced “Family Series,” allowing access to high-quality, family-friendly performances with a $15 student ticket in any seat.

The second goal of the Hello Arts! initiative is to provide the funding necessary to train CFCC students and staff through on-site education of industry practices in every department and sponsor industry specific certifications. Paid student interns and employees work side-by-side with mentors to organize live performances of local artists and musicians in the lobby of the Wilson Center before select shows, providing real-world, hands-on experience in venue management. Funding will also support CFCC student access to collaborative workshops with touring artists.

“As a former working musician myself, I learned very quickly that sometimes success in the arts doesn’t always mean being a performer; it can also mean having a very fulfilling and exciting career in managing an arts venue,” said Pluer. “From truck drivers and riggers to marketing and hospitality professionals, the arts provide jobs to thousands of people in our region. HelloArts! allows us to
bolster those efforts and prepare the next generation of arts professionals.”

To learn more about HelloArts! or donate to the program, please contact Ken Dennison at (910) 362- 7899. For additional information on the Wilson Center and to see our full schedule of performances, please visit wilsoncentertickets.com.