Omni Coliseum - History

History

This arena was an architectural marvel when first constructed, combining innovative design for the roof, seating, and the structure itself. The logo is based on the unique seating arrangement. The exterior was composed of Cor-Ten weathering steel, which was supposed to seal itself by continuing to rust, making a solid steel structure that would last for decades. The Omni was noted for its distinctive space frame roof, often joked about as looking like an egg crate or a rusty waffle iron. Designed by the firm of Thompson, Ventulett, Stainback & Associates with structural engineering work by the firm of Prybylowski and Gravino, the roof was technically described as an ortho-quad truss system. Elvis Presley performed twelve times in the Omni and a plaque was placed on an interior wall to that effect after his death. Other notable concerts held at the arena included shows by Van Halen, Bon Jovi, Def Leppard, R.E.M., Phish, Rod Stewart, Dwight Yoakam, Willie Nelson, Ozzy Osbourne, Metallica, and many others. Parts of Def Leppard's live home video "In The Round, In Your Face" were filmed at the Omni in October 1988 and the REM concert film 'Road Movie' was filmed at the Omni over three nights in November 1995. The Prince video for "Take Me With U" was also filmed there. In addition, Journey filmed the live music video for "I'll be Alright Without You" at the Omni in November 1986.

Among the major non-sports events hosted at the Omni was the 1988 Democratic National Convention, which nominated Michael Dukakis and Lloyd Bentsen for President and Vice President of the United States, respectively. The Republican ticket of George H.W. Bush and Dan Quayle won the election.