When the Little Theatre of Winston-Salem set out to find its first permanent home, it marked a defining moment for one of North Carolina's oldest community theaters and a significant milestone for arts and culture in Winston-Salem.
At a time when performing arts organizations across the country continue working to rebuild audiences and funding following the pandemic, the Little Theatre stands apart. The organization is experiencing record ticket sales and heightened community engagement, creating strong momentum alongside an urgent need for a space that could support its growth.
Finding a property that met requirements for affordability, accessibility and adaptability for performance, rehearsal and education proved challenging, as many available buildings were either cost-prohibitive or unsuitable for a community theater's needs.
However, a former office building at 4015 Brownsboro Road emerged as the right fit, offering a central location, functional layout and meaningful potential for transformation, ultimately becoming the organization's first owned facility in its nearly 90-year history.
In recognition, the deal earned the market's 2026 CoStar Impact Award for sale/acquisition of the year, as judged by a panel of local industry professionals.
About the project: After acquiring the 4,680-square-foot building in September for $475,000, the Little Theatre's plans for the new facility include a 70-seat performance space, expanded administrative offices, larger rehearsal rooms and dedicated classrooms for youth and adult theater education. The flexible performance area will support small productions, play readings and educational showcases, while the additional rehearsal and classroom spaces will allow the organization to expand its programming.
What the judges said: "The 4016 Acquisition is an excellent example of repurposing a building," said Nancy Cox, a broker at NAI Piedmont Triad. The building will offer a variety of cultural services, including a performing arts theater that will be more accessible for a diverse population, she said.
"This was a great re-use of a building from a company that had very specific needs," added Ryan Conboy, a managing director at Cushman & Wakefield.
They made it happen: Dom Maggio and Nick Gonzalez CCIM, of Linville Team Partners, represented the Little Theatre of Winston-Salem in the acquisition. William T. Bartholomew Jr. CCIM, with Meridian Realty Group, represented the seller.
This article was updated on March 26 to correctly identify the brokers involved.