Verizon Wireless Amphitheater Formerly known as Irvine Meadows

I was at the Rod Stewart Concert at the Verizon Amphitheater in Irvine, on Friday night, (8/1/2008). I've been to this venue quite a few times since it opened as the Irvine Meadows Amphitheatre in the 80’s and changed over to Verizon in 2000. I say this because I’ve always liked this venue and have enjoyed most every event I’ve attended there, until last night. We had good (not great) seats, 3rd row center, loge. Well last night’s performance was a big disappointment, not because of the performers, but due to Verizon’s sound system. The big speakers built into the stage superstructure were blown out. Even the relatively moderate volume of Bryan Adams and Rod Stewart was completely distorted at all but the quietest moments. It ruined the whole evening. I only hope the performers were aware of this, because it certainly affected the enthusiasm of most of the crowd, except for those in the first few rows who relied more on the stage speakers and not the larger arena speakers. I’m going to dispute my card charge, maybe it won’t work, but it might get Verizon’s attention. If they aren't serious about a quality performance (as evidenced by their lack of maintenance for even a top name like Rod Stewart) I won’t be inclined to attend another Verizon hosted event, anywhere.

The Verizon Wireless Amphitheater is located off the 5 and 405 freeways in Irvine. Its butted up against a hill and almost hard to locate unless you are looking for it.
The parking is free and is next to Wild Rivers Water Park. There is perferred parking for an additional fee. You must make it through the first set of ticket booths and then you take a walk to get to the amphitheater. You reach a general area first and depending on the show or concert there will be booths set up for merchandise purchases or food. Here is the set of restrooms to vie for.
The drinks are almost reasonable for a amphitheater experience. Water is $4.00 which they pour into a cup for you. Lemonade is $5.00 and Beer is $10.00. There is also food to grub on if you so choose.
The website says what you can and cannot bring in but it varies on the day. We had to throw out our unopened water yet the hats it said wasn't allowed were actually allowed. So don't take anything you wouldn't mind taking back to the car.
The amphitheater itself doesn't look that big but it holds a mass of people. The views are good and the stage is big. There is a back lawn where you can get cheap seats (but watch the crazies that go to the show, while I was there they set fire to the lawn and then jumped over it).
The amphitheater is a good place to see a show. And they have many different types of shows and concerts for you to choose from.