The Wilson Center is a live entertainment venue that hosts a wide range of exceptional performances including PNC’s Broadway Season, nationally recognized musicians and comedians, and so much more. As a part of Cape Fear Community College, we serve the Cape Fear region by providing innovative education and encouraging entertainment for everyone.
The Allan & Laura Wilson Humanities and Fine Arts Center, lovingly known as the Wilson Center, is the most technologically advanced performing arts center and learning laboratory in Eastern North Carolina. We offer a wide variety of tours from world-class Broadway shows, concerts, comedians, and more to ensure that there is truly something for everyone.
As a proud part of Cape Fear Community College, the Wilson Center operates as a hub for student learning. Behind our main stage, there are 26 instructional spaces, a studio theater, and many opportunities for hands-on education. Located as a gateway to CFCC’s campus and the greater downtown Wilmington area, the Wilson Center is a powerful investment in the future of the arts and the next generation of industry professionals.
For years, the Wilson family owned and operated grocery stores in Southeastern North Carolina. This successful business was built on community and ushered many local students into the working world by offering them their first jobs.
“Over the years, we’ve seen a lot of young people who are very bright and hard-working but need a little encouragement to get ahead,” Laura Wilson said. “It’s one of the reasons that we really value education.”
The Wilsons have supported a number of causes throughout the region, but education remains central to the family’s philanthropy. They established an endowed scholarship for students at Cape Fear Community College before making one of the largest donations in CFCC history. This donation attached their name to the performing arts facility.
“We want this to be a thank you to our friends and loyal customers throughout the years,” said Laura Wilson. “We want everyone who shopped with us over the years to know that they helped make this possible.”