The opportunity to see your favorite artist perform in Irvine will disappear after Oct. 30.The Irvine Meadows Amphitheater, a beloved and integral landmark in Irvine, is planned for removal after Gwen Stefani’s last performance. The takedown of the amphitheater has caused controversy and many emotions surrounding the removal.

In 1981, Irvine Meadows Amphitheater opened, becoming a cultural and entertainment center for residents of Irvine and Southern California alike to flock and escape their troubles through music.

“I really liked going to the amphitheater because it’s a place where people [could] come together, be able to bond with similar interests, and be able to have fun going to concerts with friends,” said sophomore Wendy Nawa.

Bands from all parts of the world came to perform in the amphitheater while numerous musical festivals have occurred over the many years since the opening. Everyone from Michael Jackson to Bob Dylan congregated in the amphitheater to perform in the pristine atmosphere.

“My favorite experience was when I watched Fallout Boy and AWolNation with my friends. [The amphitheater] was so close and convenient. Now I’ll have to go all the way to L.A. to watch a concert,” recalls sophomore Ria Dhillon.

The closing of the Irvine Meadows Amphitheater brings up nostalgic feelings for some, who were avid attendees of the concerts and shows that it held.

“When I think about the amphitheater closing, it makes me a bit nostalgic about [the] fun memories I’ve had there in high school and all the good times I’ve had with my closest friends there,” senior Noelle McHenry.

The closing is also inconvenient, according to some who admired the close proximity of the amphitheater. Music fans will now be forced to seek alternative music venues outside of Orange County, which would be a huge hassle.

“[I’m going to miss] the proximity. I see a lot of shows every year and we always make a point to try to go to shows there just because I live here in Irvine… So the proximity of it and the fact that it’s kind of in our own backyard here makes it very special,” said staff member Jerry Rose.

Recently, the Irvine Company made the decision to transform this musical heartland of Irvine into an extension of the apartment complexes called the “Los Olivos” apartments, according to the Orange County Register. With the music winding down at the Irvine Meadows Amphitheater, a plan was released that would possibly open up a new amphitheater at the Great Park. Although the Meadows Amphitheater may be closing, a resurgence of the musical community may emerge at the Great Park soon, if the plans are pursued according to the Orange County Register.

For now though, the curtains are slowly closing on the Irvine Meadows Amphitheater and will commemorate a memorable 30 years of Irvine’s musical history that has come to an end.