New season, new look at Dell Music Center

FAIRMOUNT PARK (WPVI) -- There was a big kickoff Thursday night at the Dell Music Center as it celebrates the return of its summer concert series.

A new look was also unveiled for the gateway entrances. They were designed with freshly painted murals dedicated to music.

"It's not just for concerts, people are having graduations here, it's a beautiful place in our community," said Councilman Curtis Jones Jr.

The outdoor venue has been around for 40 years but a lack of upkeep and maintenance began to take its toll.

Meanwhile the Mann Center, Philadelphia's other outdoor venue began to make capital improvements, attracting music lovers to its location.

"We're a big city. We can actually handle two outdoor venues, we have two outdoor venues and we've had two outdoor venues for a long, long period of time and it gives us double capacity," said Mayor Michael Nutter.

The city spent nearly $7 million on the renovations which feature new seating, a reconstructed parking lot and a renovated stage area.

"Money that's absolutely well spent. One of the main features of our city is tourism and this will attract that," said Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell.

"We've got the video screens, we've got a lot of space for them to perform onstage. The performers not only love coming here to perform, they want to come back," said Patty Jackson, WDAS radio host.

Also a new feature - a gazebo and pavilion area. It's dedicated in honor of the late radio legend Georgie Woods.

Season ticket holders like Maurice Houston say they are pleased with the changes at their beloved venue.

"It's a great place, it's a family place and it's part of Philadelphia history," said Houston.