City of San Diego Looking for Applications to Revitalize and Reopen Starlight Bowl

The historic Starlight Bowl, an outdoor theater in Balboa Park, staged its last production in 2010.

Since then, the famed open-air amphitheater has been shuttered and neglected.

That may be in the process of changing. On Friday, the city of San Diego issued an official request for proposals for the leasing and renovation of the 3,600-seat venue in order to re-establish it as a place to hold community events, outdoor performances, and presentations.  

The Starlight Bowl is characterized by the large plaster shell that defines the stage area and contains the dressing rooms and storage areas. It also boasts a box office, concessions, and offices.

The city is asking for the proposals to include ideas to better incorporate the property’s physical structures into the overall architectural design of Balboa Park. 

“Many longtime San Diegans have cherished memories of the Starlight Bowl and have wanted to see it restored,” said San Diego mayor Todd Gloria in a statement.

“We are excited to invite proposals that will breathe new life into this iconic venue,” he added. “Revitalizing the Starlight Bowl not only honors our past but also helps build a more dynamic future for Balboa Park.” 

The city said that it plans to consider experience and qualifications to operate an open-air amphitheater, financial capability, a detailed operating plan, and proposed renovations in the applications. The selection process will also include an oral presentation and an interview.

Rep. Sara Jacobs secured $500,000 in federal funding in 2022 in order to rehabilitate the Starlight Bowl’s existing bathroom facilities and make Americans with Disabilities Act enhancements throughout the venue. 

The Starlight Bowl was constructed in 1935 by the Ford Motor Company as a showcase for Ford vehicles during the 1935-1936 California Pacific International Exposition. In 1945, the San Diego Civic Light Opera was founded and began operating the Starlight Bowl with musical performances, choirs and symphonies.

San Diego entered into an agreement with the nonprofit organization Save Starlight to manage the amphitheater in 2018. 

Renovation proposals must be submitted by 4 p.m. on Nov. 14.