A 7,500 person capacity music and entertainment amphitheater could open on the riverfront as soon as 2025. The development team, led by music management company Red Light Ventures, says they’ve come to an agreement with the City of Richmond.
Initially unveiled in July 2022 by reporting from Richmond BizSense, the estminated $30.5 million project was delayed while the group negotiated with the city.
At City Council’s meeting on Monday, an ordinance was introduced for the city to provide an annual performance grant for the “Richmond Riverfront Performing Arts Venue.” Council will vote on the ordinance at a later date. If approved, it would be a 20-year grant with funds coming from the tax revenue generated by the venue.
The group wants to start construction this summer and plans to host 25-35 major acts each year, as well as civic events including graduations and nonprofit gatherings.
The proposed capacity level has been compared to the Ascend Amphitheater in Nashville and the Live Oak Bank Pavilion in Wilmington, NC. It’s a bit smaller than the Orion in Huntsville, AL.
Here’s a quick breakdown of those venues and some shows that are coming up at each one to get a taste of what could be in store for Richmond.
Ascend Amphitheater | Nashville, TN
- Capacity: 6,800
- Who’s playing: Charlie Puth, Young the Giant, Arctic Monkeys
Live Oak Bank Pavilion | Wilmington, NC
- Capacity: 7,200
- Who’s playing: Boyz II Men, Dave Matthews Band, boygenius
The Orion Amphitheater | Huntsville, AL
- Capacity: 8,000
- Who’s playing: Weezer, James Taylor, Ja Rule + Ashanti
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