Wilmington-based production studio Dark Horse Stages recently opened two new sound stages, adding more than 40,000 square feet to its Harley Road facilities.
"We are committed to providing world-class facilities that enable creators to realize their visions," said Kirk Englebright, president and CEO of Dark Horse Stages, in a news release.
Guests at a grand opening last week for Dark Horse's Stages 3 and 4 "were treated to an unforgettable evening featuring live music, thrilling stunts and special video messages of congratulations from North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper and Gov.-elect Josh Stein, currently the state's attorney general. Rock legend Dee Snider also made a special appearance, revealing plans to bring his production company, Defiant Artists, to North Carolina. To cap off the celebration, Snider electrified the crowd with a powerful performance of his iconic Twisted Sister anthem, We're Not Gonna Take It," according to the release.
Officials believe the additional infrastructure will help attract more films and TV series to the area.
"The expansion of Dark Horse Stages brings tremendous value to North Carolina's film industry by enhancing our capacity to meet the diverse needs of today's productions," said N.C. Film Office director Guy Gaster in the release. "The continued evolution of this outstanding facility elevates North Carolina's appeal as a premier film destination to both major studios and independent filmmakers, alike, providing a modern and attractive entertainment hub that will foster creativity, efficiency and true collaboration for years to come."
Each of the new stages is 20,000 square feet, complementing the existing 42,500 square feet of stage space at Stages 1 and 2, the release stated. "Standing 55 feet tall with a 45-foot to the grid height from the floor, these soundproof stages are built with 12-inch-thick concrete walls and a soundproof roof, ensuring optimal acoustics for various productions," according to the release.
The grand opening "aligned with a surge of several local productions, including the feature film Merv and TV series like The Waterfront, The Runarounds and The Summer I Turned Pretty," the release stated.
