Overview
The Town of Wake Forest is exploring opportunities to expand arts, cultural, and event spaces to better serve residents and support the community’s continued growth. The Performing Arts Center Feasibility Study evaluates the demand for arts and event space, identifies potential facility options, and helps guide long-term planning for arts and cultural programming in Wake Forest.
Phase 1 – Market & Feasibility
Phase 1 of the study focused on evaluating the market demand, financial feasibility, and community need for a performing arts facility in Wake Forest.
The study was conducted by Johnson Consulting in partnership with Theatre Consultants Collaborative and was designed to help the Town evaluate the feasibility of developing a new performing arts venue.
The consulting team conducted a comprehensive analysis that included:
- Population growth and demographic trends
- Market demand for arts and entertainment venues
- Comparable performing arts facilities
- Industry trends and best practices
- Financial projections and potential economic impacts
- Feasibility Study – final report – attached
- Johnson Consulting presented their findings at the August 5, 2025 BOC meeting.
- Approved Resolution -
2025-51 Resolution Endorsing Option B and Authorizing Phase 2 of the Performing Arts Feasibility Study.pdf
The analysis found that Wake Forest’s rapid population growth, strong demographics, and high interest in arts and cultural programming support the development of additional performing arts space. The study also found that the Renaissance Centre is an important community asset but is approaching its capacity for hosting events and performances.
Based on this analysis, the consultants concluded that the community could support a new arts and events facility designed to accommodate a wider range of performances, community events, and rentals.
Phase 2- Concept Refinement & Implementation Planning
Following completion of Phase 1, the Wake Forest Board of Commissioners endorsed the recommended development scenario and authorized staff to proceed with Phase 2 of the feasibility study.
Phase 2 focuses on advancing the project from feasibility to preliminary implementation planning. This work includes refining the facility concept, developing preliminary cost estimates, updating demand and financial projections, and exploring potential partnerships and funding strategies.
The goal of this phase is to further define the scope, cost, and potential funding approach for a future Performing Arts and Events Center in Wake Forest while continuing to evaluate how the project could support arts programming, community events, and economic development.
The Town is currently advancing conceptual planning for a potential Center as part of Phase 2 of the feasibility study process.