The News Herald (Willoughby, OH)
Facility exceeding expectations
Fans, performers sounding off on city’s new amphitheater
With thousands of spectators attending shows at Mentor Civic Amphitheater, it’s pretty clear that it’s a hit with the public.
The first concerts in the city’s Mentor Rocks free summer series have drawn an estimated total of more than 20,000 people, according to officials.
“Last year, we averaged about 1,500 per show,” Community Relations Administrator Ante Logarusic said, regarding the previous gazebo venue. “So far this year, we’ve ranged from about 3,500 to over 5,000. We’ve had people sitting on the second mound past the parking lot.”
Feedback from fans has proved positive.
“Thank you for city of Mentor taxpayers who funded the project,” Concord Township resident Bill Joherl said in a Facebook post. “Great asset like no other locally for all in Northeast Ohio to enjoy.”
Mentor resident Scott Burress posted, “Fantastic venue. Love having all the food trucks, makes a great family night out.”
Not only are concertgoers providing rave reviews, but also those participating in the events.
Soul Asylum front man Dave Pirner was pleased that the band was chosen as the grand opening act at the new facility, on the Fourth of July.
“It’s beautiful,” he said, during a pre-show interview. “I’m excited to break it in.”
Abbey Rodeo’s show drew about 5,000 people July 25. Drummer Jim Bonfanti, formerly of the Raspberries, called playing at the new space a highlight of the band’s summer schedule.
“We had been looking forward to the event and were not disappointed,” said Bonfanti, who lives in Mentor. “The venue itself, the crowd, and everyone involved behind the scenes were absolutely amazing. Kudos to my hometown and thanks to everyone.”
Dave Vogrin, drummer for Post Road, which played July 18, praised the acoustics and staff.
“(It’s) an amphitheater musicians can really enjoy and the city of Mentor can be proud of,” he said.
Construction of the amphitheater was approved by city leaders with the intent of creating a venue for the performing arts that would serve as a destination.
The $2.5 million, 7,500-square-foot facility features state-of-the-art lighting and sound, and twin 14-by-7-foot retractable video screens on either side of the stage.
Food vendors serving at the spot also approve.
“What a way to spend a wonderful Tuesday evening at the amp in Mentor,” said Lou Tarasco of Classic Kettle Corn & Snowie Ice.
Wildwood Cultural Center Director Nick Standering said it’s like having an ongoing festival each week.
“The atmosphere has been electric at the new amp,” he said.
The amphitheater is hosting other free events this summer, including the presentation of “Macbeth” by the Cleveland Shakespeare Festival July 30. Resonanz Opera will present a collection of classic Italian arias Aug. 19.
The Mentor Rocks concert series is 7 p.m. Tuesdays through Aug. 15. For more information, visit mentorrocks.info.