Work has officially started with a ground-breaking on a new theatre facility in the City of Myrtle Beach, US, marking the expansion of Coastal Carolina University’s (CCU) footprint. 

The ground-breaking ceremony was jointly hosted by CCU, the City of Myrtle Beach, LS3P Associates, and Monteith Construction. 

Located in Myrtle Beach’s Arts and Innovation District along Main Street, the project will see the former Helen Mates Dress Shop, J&J Drugs, and Broadway Theater buildings at 807, 809, and 811 Main Street being converted.  

This reuse initiative aims to create a 300-seat performing arts centre with a lobby, performers’ lounge, dressing rooms, rooftop patio space, and other amenities. 

Operating under a partnership agreement with CCU, the theatre will serve as a venue for its performing arts programmes and a range of cultural events.  

CCU will oversee operational responsibilities, ensuring a minimum of 150 'use days' annually for plays and performances, with an additional 100 days available for third-party use and 30 days allocated to the city. 

Designed by LS3P Associates and constructed by Monteith Construction, the project timeline anticipates completion over two years, with an opening scheduled for mid-2026.  

Monteith Construction project manager Christopher Edwards said: “It is with great pleasure and pride that Monteith Construction stands before you as we embark on [an] extraordinary journey together.  

“The construction of the historical theatre for the city of Myrtle Beach and Coastal Carolina University. This project is not merely about renovating three historical buildings. We are in the heart of Myrtle Beach. This is about weaving together the rich tapestry of history, culture, and education that defines our community.” 

The project, with an estimated construction cost of $22.3m, incorporates $4.9m in historical tax credits for the redevelopment of the former Helen Mates Dress Shop.