I’m writing to express my deep concern about Live Nation’s potential expansion into Portland. While I welcome growth in our arts and entertainment sector, I fear this development could undermine the very cultural fabric that makes our city special.

Portland’s artistic heritage is woven through venues like the beloved State Theatre — our diamond in the rough — and the magnificent Merrill Auditorium. These aren’t just buildings; they’re where our community comes together. I’ve watched my daughter perform in ballet recitals at Merrill, attended countless Christmas shows there, and even witnessed her graduation in that same historic space. These venues hold our stories.

The issue isn’t with Live Nation itself, they’re welcome in Maine. But placing a similarly sized venue in Portland could seriously affect our existing cultural landmarks that have served us so well for generations. These venues aren’t just surviving; they’re thriving, hosting diverse programming that enriches our community.

Instead of potentially compromising our current venues, I suggest Live Nation consider locations outside Portland’s city center. This would require careful traffic studies and impact assessments, but could offer an ideal solution that benefits everyone. We could welcome new entertainment options while preserving the historic venues that have become such an integral part of Portland’s identity.

These aren’t just buildings, they’re where we’ve created countless memories with family and friends. My hope is that future generations will have the same opportunity to experience the magic of these beloved Portland institutions.

Valerie Oakes
Scarborough