MORE HEAD – The Carteret Community Theater building has been unused since September 2018, when Hurricane Florence caused extensive damage, leaving the building an empty shell. Nearly four years later, the board of directors continues to work in order to be able to resume the use of the building.
VSArteret Community Theater was badly damaged by Hurricane Florence. (photo added)
Hurricane Florence damaged the roof, allowing rain to pour into the building. Everything inside the building will have to be replaced: seats, electronic equipment, curtains.
The Carteret Community Theater Board of Directors is not just looking to restore the theater to its pre-hurricane state, it aspires to bring it into the 21st century.
The council made the decision to stay in the current building, but they hope to convert the current space into a true state-of-the-art performing arts center. They commented on their high hopes for the theater and their plans which include a rehearsal space, a black box theater and even a possible space for podcasts.
The council hopes the theater will provide a variety of entertainment for the community, specifically mentioning tribute bands, plays and an expanded list of summer camps for local children. Current summer camps run by Community Theater sell out in minutes. Noting the high demand, the board expressed hope that the new space will allow for an expansion of camp offerings.
To achieve these goals, the Community Theater is looking to launch a fundraising campaign to raise funds for the theater building. They are currently working with Arthur Alley, which is a philanthropic consulting firm specializing in fundraising and mission development, as listed on their website.
They hope the campaign will be launched in the coming months. Currently they are accepting donations through the Carteret Community Theater | Kindly.
There are also ways to get involved beyond the financial. On the next Volunteer Day, the theater will share volunteer opportunities. The event will take place at First United Methodist Church on September 24 at 10:30 a.m. For more information, call 252-544-5838.
Although the building is currently unusable, the Community Theater continues to hold performances at other locations, such as Joslyn Hall on the campus of Carteret Community College. Director Charles Pringle expressed his gratitude for the support of the community and all the organizations that have lent their facilities for summer camps and shows.
