Long Beach Amphitheater Aims to Boost Tourism and Economy

The new waterfront amphitheater, F&M Bank Amphitheater of Long Beach, is set to open next to the iconic Queen Mary. It aims to address the financial challenges faced by the city. This venue is intended to replace the declining revenue from oil extraction and attract more tourists to Long Beach. The amphitheater, with a capacity of 11,000, is larger than the Greek Theatre and about two-thirds the size of the Hollywood Bowl.

Concert promoters regard this amphitheater as filling a significant gap in Southern California’s music scene. It will serve as a temporary venue, eventually leading to the creation of the permanent Long Beach Bowl, which aspires to be the largest waterfront venue on the West Coast. It opens with a performance by Long Beach native Snoop Dogg and is expected to operate for up to 10 years.

Mayor Rex Richardson, who began advocating for the project in 2023 after the closure of Irvine’s FivePoint Amphitheatre, has high hopes for the amphitheater. He believes this venue will be a cultural hub that fosters community engagement and creative economy growth. Richardson emphasized the potential for the F&M Bank Amphitheater to create memorable experiences.

Nick Storch, head of global artist development at Independent Artist Group, noted the significance of such venues for summer amphitheater tours. These tours cater to audiences larger than those attending concerts at venues like the Greek Theatre but smaller than those at the Hollywood Bowl. The amphitheater will also provide opportunities for acts not yet ready for large arenas. Artists such as Motley Crue, Five Finger Death Punch, and Tesla are already lined up to perform.

The temporary venue draws inspiration from other amphitheaters like FivePoint, which served as a temporary concert venue before its closure. Live Nation, previously involved with FivePoint, abandoned plans for a permanent structure following the Irvine City Council’s decision to end negotiations in 2023. This led Long Beach officials to explore a similar initiative.

The amphitheater’s location boasts a unique waterfront view, enhancing the overall concert experience. Dan Hoffend of Legends Global, the operator of the venue, highlighted the appeal of the Queen Mary and harbor view from the highest seats. Tra Jones, general manager of the facility, emphasized a commitment to an industrial, stylistic design that blends with the port surroundings.

Under Richardson’s direction, Long Beach now identifies as ‘Vibe City,’ capturing the essence of its cultural and artistic appeal. However, the mayor acknowledges that the local community has immediate concerns, including homelessness and traffic safety. Residents have raised noise-related issues as well.

Addressing the need for economic sustainability, Richardson plans to use the amphitheater as a revenue source to replace the diminishing oil revenue. By 2036, the venue is expected to yield nearly $29 million. It aligns with the city’s ambition to invest in arts, culture, and tourism to achieve a stable future economy.

Long Beach has a vibrant music legacy, hosting legendary acts like Elvis Presley and recent music festivals like Warped Tour. Mayor Richardson believes the amphitheater will enhance Long Beach’s position as a concert destination and contribute to a legacy of economic resilience through arts and culture.