Finally, in Paul Godfrey’s proposal, it is outlined that the SkyDome be used to host large-scale events for the city of Toronto. Since it was built, there have been numerous events that have taken place within the SkyDome. Recently, the SkyDome has been under heavy scrutiny as the media feels that it is too small or not a good venue to host large-scale events, such as the Summer Olympics (Toronto is planning on bidding for the 2028 Summer Olympic Games). It is argued that the stadium would not be able to host an opening and closing ceremony, as it is too small, and that the playing surface is not designed for track and field events. Through Paul Godfrey’s proposal and from previous and futuristic examples, it is evident that these concerns and critics are ultimately wrong.

            Firstly, as outlined in Paul Godfrey’s proposal, the SkyDome is designed to host major league baseball, Canadian football and other large-scale events. It was not designed as a track and field facility. Additionally, it was not designed with the aspirations to attract the Summer Olympics games (the Olympic games were not mentioned in the proposal)[1]. Similarly, the Canadian Government is funding a world-class track and field centre, which is currently being built on the York University Campus. This demonstrates how the SkyDome will not have to worry about said events, as there will be a facility solely dedicated to it. Furthermore, regarding the aforementioned size issue, the SkyDome will be hosting the opening and closing ceremonies for the 2015 Pan Am Games. This illustrates how the SkyDome can be used as a main stage for the Olympics.

            Moreover, the stadium has also played host to numerous concerts, and other miscellaneous events. For example, big named musicians such as Bruce Springsteen, U2, The Rolling Stones, Madonna and Bon Jovi have taken the stage at the SkyDome. This demonstrates how the stadium is capable of attracting musical icons. Similarly, the stadium also hosted two of North America’s largest fighting events. In 2002, the SkyDome was the site for the World Wrestling Federation’s WrestleMania. This event broke the SkyDome attendance record (68,237), and is still currently maintaining it[2]. Similarly, in 2011, the SkyDome was the host for Ultimate Fighting Challenge (UFC) 129. The event set a record for the largest crowd at a UFC event[3]. Finally, the SkyDome hosts Monster Jam (a monster truck show). Hosting all of these events demonstrates how the SkyDome can be showcased as a world-class stadium. Additionally, it fulfills Paul Godfrey’s proposed idea that the SkyDome is to also be used as a venue for large-scale events. Therefore, through events such as concerts, or opening ceremonies, the SkyDome cannot be seen as a substandard stadium, as it fulfills its duties and purposes.

 

[1] Sereis F 4593-1-91. Godfrey, Paul, “Toronto Domed Stadium Proposal,” EllisDon Corporation Projects 1982-2006. 1984. Archives of Ontario.

[2] “Rogers Centre – Facts”. Accessed March 14, 2014.
            http://www.Rogerscentre.com.

[3] “Rogers Centre – Facts”. Accessed March 14, 2014.
            http://www.Rogerscentre.com.