Plans Unveiled for Major Investment in Southwest Rockford Park; Outdoor Concert Venue Opening in 2024
ROCKFORD, IL – Levings Park, 1420 S. Pierpont Ave., Rockford, is a regional destination park that provides unique recreational experiences with two entertainment series that run each summer, West Rock Wake Park, fishing, playgrounds, and shelters to utilize for special events. Music, arts, and culture are easy to find almost every Sunday during the summer at Levings Park thanks to the free Live at Levings and Domingos en el Parque entertainment series. Both were relocated this summer to Black Hawk Park as Hard Rock Casino Rockford, Ringland-Johnson Construction (RJC), and the Rockford Park District finalize design plans and complete prep work needed to build a new permanent outdoor concert venue. For years, these two summer staples have had to utilize Park District showmobiles, which had minimal performance space and production.
Today, Hard Rock Casino Rockford, Ringland-Johnson Construction, and the Rockford Park District unveiled plans for a permanent concert venue which will include a concrete stage, beautiful cedar structure, and a durable metal roof along with upgraded lighting and sound equipment.
“Hard Rock’s commitment to the Rockford region goes beyond the four walls of our casino. We are honored to be a part of the long history of entertainment at Levings Park. We envision this venue as not just an entertainment destination, but as a platform for cultural enrichment, a hub for local talent, and a catalyst for unforgettable experiences," said Geno Iafrate, President of Hard Rock Casino Rockford.
Levings Park Concert Venue Fast Facts:
807-square-foot stage and timber structure
Two 165-square-foot dressing rooms, each with air conditioning and heat
Stage will be completely accessible
Costs for architecture, engineering, and construction are being funded thanks to Ringland- Johnson Construction and Hard Rock Casino Rockford. “Together with Hard Rock Casino Rockford and the Rockford Park District, we at RJC are helping to design and build a community stage where art, music, and joy will unite, creating a lasting impression on the soul of the city. Ringland-Johnson Construction is honored to be part of shaping Rockford's cultural legacy,” said Scott Mutton, VP of Design, Ringland-Johnson Inc. Construction will begin later this month, and should be completed before the first summer concert in 2024.
In 2019, the Rockford Park District Board of Commissioners approved a resolution of support for the proposed Hard Rock Casino in Rockford. The District was also named a philanthropy partner for Hard Rock Casino Rockford because of the District’s commitment to improve the quality of life for all citizens and to unite our diverse community through the power of play and music. “Hard Rock Casino Rockford is all in on investing in area youth, and this partnership will provide financial resources to support areas that citizens deemed top priorities, such as neighborhood parks and youth programs, along with arts and cultural programming. Hard Rock Casino Rockford has also expressed an interest in supporting the expansion of Washington Park Community Center to incorporate a music production studio, support neighborhood youth programs, and enhance performance opportunities at the Sinnissippi Park Music Shell,” said Rockford Park District Executive Director Jay Sandine.
About Live at Levings
Live at Levings started in 1986, from an idea by Elbert Jordan. Live at Levings is a talent showcase featuring a variety of musicians, singers, dancers, poets, and much more. Elbert coordinated the venue for 17 years until award-winning soul jazz saxophonist Harlan Jefferson became director of the Levings Talent Showcase. It’s an opportunity for local aspiring artists to take their performance to the stage and develop their skills. It also provides cultural, educational, recreational, and leadership development experiences through the arts.
About Domingos en el Parque
Domingos en el Parque was founded by Armando Cárdenas in 2002. Domingos en el Parque not only provides cultural entertainment for all ages in the Latino community, but also offers families a venue to experience their heritage in music and dance in an “open air” park setting. Armando retired after the 2019 season, but the venture continued with Rudy and Laura Ortiz at the helm from 2011 through 2014. With great success in past years, this popular event is now run by Antonio Ramirez Jr. and Delia A. Rodriguez, co-founders of United at Peace, Inc.