Dan Brawley is the Executive Director of the Cucalorus Film Foundation, founder of Jengo's Playhouse, and a longtime advocate for Wilmington's arts community and revitalization of Downtown Wilmington.

Through decades of involvement in the neighborhood, Dan has helped guide the area's evolution from an overlooked industrial corridor into one of Wilmington's most unique districts. Along the way, neighborhood staples like Jengo's Playhouse, Wabi Sabi and Folks Café have helped create a sense of identity, connection, and community that continues to shape the area's future.

In this episode, we explore:

• The early days of the neighborhood before it became known as the Soda Pop District.

• The story behind the Soda Pop District name and how the area developed its identity.

• Why community anchors like Folks Café and Jengo's Playhouse help preserve the neighborhood's identity through periods of growth and change.

• Why preserving local history and creating authentic places matters.

• Dan's vision for the future of the Soda Pop District and Wilmington's creative economy.

Cucalorus Film Foundation

jengos.eventive.org/welcome

Soda Pop District – Wilmington Downtown, iNC