Wilmington, NC is one of the most populous cities in North Carolina. A popular port city and home to a renowned film and television studio, Wilmington has been known as the "Hollywood of the East." As a famous film and television hub, Wilmington hosts several prominent film festivals each year, including Cucalorus, the Wilmington Jewish Film Festival, and the Cape Fear Independent Film Festival.
In addition to its background in film, Wilmington is known for its performing arts; the city's showcase theater, Thalian Hall, hosts around 250 events every year. The complex opened in 1858 and has been in continuous use ever since, in part due to its flexibility in featuring three performance venues. There are a number of other local theaters and performing groups all working to add color and culture to Wilmington's social calendar.