The Fayetteville City Council moved to accelerate its final $500,000 contribution to Cape Fear Regional Theatre, completing the city’s $2.5 million commitment from 2023 to support the theater’s expansion.

The expanded CFRT building is expected to broaden access, with an anticipated first full year attendance of more than 70,000.

Known as Act 2, the expansion will double CFRT’s footprint from 20,000 to 40,000 square feet, adding a larger lobby, mezzanine event space, expanded classrooms, upgraded shops, and a rooftop venue with a bar and second stage.

Construction began in April 2025 as CFRT performs at an alternate Owens Drive venue, with the first show in the new building set to be Frozen: The Musical, running late January to mid-February.

The accelerated payment, approved alongside other consent items, aims to help finish construction early and reopen the Hay Street facility in January, potentially avoiding additional borrowing.

CFRT has seen notable growth recently, including a 45% rise in summer camps, 89% in studio classes, and a 20% increase in mainstage attendance, underscoring demand for the expanded space.

The overall $25 million project is now 98% funded, with support from state, county, city, foundations, and individual donors, according to CFRT’s artistic director.