Dignity Health Enhances Community Ties with Bakersfield Arena and Venue Partnership
The City of Bakersfield, California, has partnered with Dignity Health to expand their naming-rights agreement for one of the region’s key venues. The downtown complex, formerly known as Centennial Garden and more recently Mechanics Bank Arena, Theater and Convention Center, will officially be rebranded as Dignity Health Arena, Theater and Convention Center starting next month.
Dignity Health and the City of Bakersfield are set to unveil the newly renamed venue, Dignity Health Arena, Theater, and Convention Center, in mid-March 2025. This significant rebranding reflects a strengthened partnership, with a shared vision of enhancing community well-being and fostering connections. The venue, which was previously known as Centennial Garden and later Mechanics Bank Arena, Theater, and Convention Center, now embodies Dignity Health’s ongoing commitment to the local community and its growth.
Christian Clegg, the city manager, emphasized the importance of the partnership, stating, “Partnering with Dignity Health to rename our city’s entertainment and events complex reflects a shared commitment to community well-being and growth. This new chapter signals a step forward in fostering connections and opportunities for everyone who calls this place home.”
As the leading healthcare system in Kern County, Dignity Health has been a cornerstone of the local community for many years. The 11-year partnership shows Dignity Health’s dedication to meeting the growing needs of the area, especially in the realms of health education and prevention. The expanded partnership will play a key role in hosting health fairs, providing prevention screenings, and furthering public health education efforts in the region.
B.J. Predum, the Central Valley Market President for Dignity Health, shared his excitement about the partnership, saying, “As we expand our partnership in Bakersfield, Dignity Health is proud to be part of a shared vision that not only brings major concerts and events to our community but also creates a space for local gatherings and moments that belong to every member of Kern County. This is more than a venue — it’s a symbol of our commitment to honoring and uplifting the community we serve.”
Dignity Health Arena, Theater, and Convention Center is managed by ASM Global, a global leader in venue management. The complex boasts a 10,000-capacity arena, a 3,000-seat theater, and a 17,840-square-foot convention center, offering ample space for a variety of events. Over the years, the venue has attracted top performers such as Elton John, Zach Bryan, Peso Pluma, Chris Stapleton, Gabriel Iglesias, and Jelly Roll, in addition to being the home of the AHL’s Bakersfield Condors. The arena also hosts the California Interscholastic Federation’s State High School Wrestling Championships, among other sporting events.
In addition to hosting large-scale performances and sporting events, the venue has been instrumental in supporting the local community. Recent events have included the United Farm Workers National Convention, the California Forward State Economic Summit, the California Math Teacher’s Annual Conference, and Bakersfield Recycles Day. The venue has also played a role in youth engagement, with programs such as job shadowing opportunities for local students and hosting multiple high school and college graduations.
Adam Miller, the general manager of the venue for ASM Global, expressed enthusiasm about the expanded partnership, saying, “We are thrilled to expand our longstanding partnership with Dignity Health, which has been a valued corporate sponsor and suite holder at the arena for years. Now, as they take on the naming rights, this partnership further solidifies our shared commitment to Bakersfield. We look forward to working even more closely with Dignity Health to create unforgettable experiences for our guests and continue making a positive impact in our community.”
The venue, now named Dignity Health Arena, Theater, and Convention Center, is set to remain a key location for community activities, entertainment, and regional events. It will continue to offer diverse events that meet the needs of the local population while playing a crucial role in the community’s health and engagement. The expanded partnership between Dignity Health and the City of Bakersfield is a testament to the power of collaboration in creating spaces that nurture the growth and well-being of the community.
About Mechanics Bank Arena, Theater, and Convention Center
Owned by the City of Bakersfield and managed by ASM Global, the venue is home to the AHL’s Bakersfield Condors and a hub for concerts, family shows, and community events throughout the year.
About Dignity Health
Dignity Health, a nonprofit healthcare network, provides high-quality, compassionate care through its 39 acute care hospitals, 400+ care centers, and extensive physician network across Arizona, California, and Nevada. A part of CommonSpirit Health, Dignity Health serves the common good with a focus on serving the poor and underserved communities.
About ASM Global
ASM Global is the world’s leading venue management company, managing over 400 prestigious arenas, stadiums, and performing arts venues. The company’s approach focuses on client-first strategies to drive financial success and elevate guest experiences.
