The Opening of the Intuit Dome starts a new chapter in the history of Inglewood. Along with a ribbon cutting ceremony, pop star Bruno Mars headlined a two-night concert series. Several celebrities and public figures were in attendance to celebrate a night that represented new beginnings and music.
The partnership between the Los Angeles Clippers and the City of Inglewood was the foundation of the new arena coming into fruition.
“It’s my fourth term and I’ve seen a lot: the Forum, SoFi, YouTube Theater. This is our fourth venue in 10 years,” said Inglewood mayor James Butts. “This is the most exciting time there is.”
For council member Dionne Faulk, the Intuit Dome was a long time coming. The Dome resides in District four, the neighborhood that she governs.
“There’s been a lot of blood, sweat and tears that went into opening this arena,” Faulk said. “For it to be here today and everybody to be able to celebrate and then the topping on the cake is the Bruno Mars concert.”
Related Stories
Paralympian Isaac Jean-Paul’s Long Jump to Paris
Flipping to success: Frederick Richard
Mark Weinberg has been the city manager of Inglewood for three different terms. He has witnessed the city overcome challenges and persevere into the entertainment destination it is today.
“The last time I was here, I was trying to help rescue this city from insolvency,” Weinberg said. “To be able to be here again and to be in the city manager seat to be part of this urban renewal and revitalization … is stunning for me.”
Having Bruno Mars headline the grand opening concert also has a special meaning. The Honolulu native moved to Inglewood briefly after graduating high school to start his career as a recording artist.
“I don’t think there’s a better opening act that you could possibly have. His music really brings people together,” said legendary music producer James “Jimmy Jam” Harris III. “That’s the desire with his music.”
Mars won 15 Grammy Awards and was featured in two Super Bowl Halftime shows.
“I’ve never seen a Bruno Mars concert, so I’m super excited,” said film and TV director Kenya Barris. “I can’t wait for this season to start.”
Marco Film Studios president James Lopez mentioned how he enjoyed watching Mars develop into a world-renowned recording artist and that he was proud of him.
“I used to be a record executive and I worked with [Mars] when he was first starting out at Atlantic Records,” Lopez said. “Everything he did with Anderson .Paak, that whole album was fire.”
Mars performed his newest collaboration “Die With A Smile” with Lady Gaga at the concert.
Business mogul Bozoma Saint John hopes that Inglewood continues to preserve its history while it progresses.
“I think it’s really important for this city, which is known for its entertainment,” Saint John said about the Clippers moving to Inglewood. “The more that we can have for ownable spaces, the better.”
The grand opening marked the first time Clippers center Mo Bamba has entered the Intuit Dome.
“This is insane,” Bamba said. “Bruno Mars is a legend but I’m looking forward to seeing how this could possibly translate to the basketball season and seeing how the fans are loud and how he interacts with them.”
This is the first time the Clippers have their own stadium since 1999. They competed in the Los Angeles Memorial Sports Arena, which has since been demolished. BMO Stadium now stands in its place. In the Staples Center/Crypto.com Arena, the Clippers were housed with the Los Angeles Lakers, Sparks and Kings.
“We’re very excited about this year,” said award-winning actor Courtney Vance. “Mr. Ballmer has been planning this for a long, long time. It’s nice to not have to share with three different teams.”
The concert was a date night for forward Derrick Jones jr. and his wife. He signed with the Clippers in July after competing for the Dallas Mavericks last season.
“I can’t wait to get in there and hear some good songs and enjoy the night with my wife,” Jones jr. said. “My first year with the team is the first year of the Dome, so it’s going to be real exciting for me.”
