UNC-Chapel Hill is planning a performing arts lab, studio and theater on Franklin Street.
Chancellor Carol Folt says the University has committed $4 million in non-state funding to build the $5 million facility.
Folt says "The Core@Carolina Square" will allow university departments and the public better access to works in progress. But she says it won't compete with the existing performance spaces on campus.
"We bring symphony orchestras and ballet companies. They don't come and practice in front of our town's children," Folt says.