Dunlow declined to name the group the amphitheater was sold to, according to terms of the agreement. He said, however, the group will bring live musical acts to the venue. “It looks like there will be shows again next year.”
Sale price was $660,000.
The group, with people from Kansas and Nashville, Tennessee, has experience operating outdoor venues, Dunlow said.
He said it is a positive sign investors wanted to buy the venue, which was active for three years before being sold to group called Atlantic One, which did not work out. Dunlow got the venue back.
With news the Roanoke Rapids Theater now has temporary managers and a show for November 11, Dunlow said, “I think this is one of the signs that leads me to think the economy is trying to turn around.”
Whether this will signal a beginning to renewed interest in the Carolina Crossroads Music and Entertainment District remains unknown, Dunlow said. “We never stopped trying to develop it. I think it won’t be until the economy sees significant improvement.”
Dunlow said when the economy tanked he and others were still trying to find buyers and builders. He does believe, however, when concerts most likely begin next year, “It will draw more attention to Roanoke Rapids.”
A principle in the group which bought the venue declined immediate comment today.
Mayor Emery Doughtie said he was excited to learn the venue was sold. “I think the two together will compliment each other,” he said of the theater and the outdoor amphitheater. “We’re not putting any money in that (the outdoor venue).”
On the potential for the theater, Doughtie said, “I’m much more positive. I don’t want to get overly excited. That’s what happened in the beginning. I’m cautiously optimistic.”
Doughtie said, “I will feel better after November 11 when we get our money and they get their money.”
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