A new waterfront amphitheater is opening in Long Beach, significantly larger than both the Greek Theatre and the Hollywood Bowl. The F&M Bank Amphitheater, located near the Queen Mary, is anticipated to replace declining oil revenues with boosts in tourism. Concert promoters view it as filling a gap in Southern California’s music venue offerings.
The temporary amphitheater can accommodate up to 11,000 people and serves as a forerunner to a planned permanent venue, the “Long Beach Bowl,” which aims to become the largest waterfront venue on the West Coast. It opens on June 6 with a performance by Snoop Dogg and is expected to operate for up to a decade.
Mayor Rex Richardson has long envisioned a waterfront performance space and expedited plans following the closure of Irvine’s FivePoint Amphitheatre. This new venue is hoped to recapture some of the market lost with Irvine’s venue shutdown. Richardson stated during the groundbreaking that the amphitheater is an investment in the city’s future and cultural economy.
The region has lacked a suitable outdoor venue for national tours since FivePoint closed, said Nick Storch, head of global artist development at Independent Artist Group. Tours between smaller and larger venues are essential for the music industry, offering an outdoor concert experience.
Veteran artists like Tesla, who have lacked venues in the area since FivePoint’s closure, view the amphitheater positively. Its design as a “summer shed” continues what FivePoint started as a temporary venue following Irvine Meadows’ closure.
Live Nation, which operated FivePoint, initially planned a permanent amphitheater but ended negotiations with Irvine’s city council. Realizing opportunities, Long Beach’s officials attended FivePoint’s final concert to explore similar possibilities for the city.
The location of the F&M Bank Amphitheater near the waterfront enhances its appeal. Visitors enjoy scenic views, making even the furthest seat a desirable spot, according to Legends Global’s Dan Hoffend, the amphitheater operator.
The venue, managed by Legends Global and owned by the city, is intended to offset the anticipated drop in oil-generated revenues, aiming to generate $29 million by 2036. This aligns with Long Beach’s strategy for a more sustainable future focused on arts and tourism, as emphasized by Mayor Richardson.
Positioning music as a vital part of the city’s identity, Richardson hopes the amphitheater underscores Long Beach’s cultural and musical historical significance. Artists like Snoop Dogg and bands such as War and Sublime have deep roots in the city. The venue aims to continue Long Beach’s tradition of influential music events.
Richardson considers the new amphitheater a step toward making Long Beach economically resilient and recognized globally for its cultural contributions.