A Journey Through Time: The Moody Coliseum in Dallas During the 1970s

Introduction

The 1970s marked a vibrant era for the iconic Moody Coliseum in Dallas, Texas. This historic venue played a pivotal role in the local music scene, hosting legendary concerts, sporting events, and religious gatherings that left an indelible mark on the city's cultural landscape.

Moody Coliseum: A Symbol of Dallas Heritage

Built in 1956, the Moody Coliseum stands as a testament to the vision of Dallas Baptist University, which commissioned its construction. The coliseum's unique design, featuring a distinctive dome and arched windows, has become synonymous with the campus and the surrounding area.

Over the years, the venue has undergone several renovations to enhance its functionality and maintain its architectural integrity. In 1973, a major expansion added a second balcony, increasing the seating capacity to over 10,000.

Music Mecca of the 1970s

The 1970s witnessed the Moody Coliseum's transformation into a music mecca. The decade kicked off with the legendary "Super Concert" series, which brought some of the biggest names in music to Dallas, including The Rolling Stones, The Who, Led Zeppelin, and Bob Dylan.

The coliseum's acoustics and intimate setting created an unforgettable concert experience for music lovers. The venue hosted over 200 concerts during the decade, featuring a diverse range of artists, from country music legends like Johnny Cash and Dolly Parton to rock icons Van Halen, Aerosmith, and KISS.

Sporting Legacy

In addition to its musical significance, the Moody Coliseum played a significant role in Dallas sports history. The Dallas Chaparrals of the American Basketball Association (ABA) called the coliseum home from 1967 to 1973. The Chaparrals, led by future NBA stars Norm Van Lier and Larry Jones, brought thrilling basketball action to Dallas fans for six seasons.

The Moody Coliseum Today

Today, the Moody Coliseum remains a vital part of the Dallas community. It continues to host concerts, sporting events, and religious gatherings, drawing thousands of visitors each year. The venue underwent a major renovation in 2015, which included upgrades to its seating, sound system, and lighting.

A Place for Memorable Experiences

Over its decades of existence, the Moody Coliseum has played host to countless memorable moments. Here are a few stories that illustrate the impact it has had on the lives of Dallas residents:

• The Beatles Backstage: In 1964, the legendary Beatles made a brief stop at the Moody Coliseum during their American tour. While they did not perform, the band took a tour of the venue and met with fans backstage.
• Van Halen's High-Flying Stunts: In 1978, Van Halen performed at the Moody Coliseum during their "Runnin' with the Devil" tour. Lead guitarist Eddie Van Halen thrilled the audience with his iconic "leaping" stunts, soaring over the stage and guitar while playing his solos.
• Kiss Meets Southern Baptists: In 1974, the rock band Kiss performed at the Moody Coliseum, which was then a venue owned by Dallas Baptist University. The university's conservative student body was reportedly shocked by the band's makeup and stage antics.

Step-by-Step Guide to Visiting the Moody Coliseum

1. Check the Schedule: Visit the Moody Coliseum website or social media pages to check upcoming events.
2. Purchase Tickets: Tickets can be purchased online, at the Moody Coliseum box office, or through Ticketmaster.
3. Plan Your Transportation: The Moody Coliseum is located at 9405 East Interstate 30, Dallas, TX 75243. Parking is available on campus.
4. Arrive Early: Allow ample time to find your seats and enjoy the atmosphere.
5. Immerse Yourself in the Experience: Sit back, relax, and let the music or performance transport you to another world.

Pros and Cons of Visiting the Moody Coliseum

Pros:

• Historic venue with a rich history and iconic architecture
• Intimate setting for concerts and performances
• Convenient location on the Dallas Baptist University campus
• Renovated facilities with comfortable seating and excellent acoustics
• Wide range of events from concerts to sporting events

Cons:

• Limited parking on campus
• Ticket prices can be high for some events
• Limited food and beverage options within the venue

Conclusion

The Moody Coliseum remains an enduring symbol of Dallas's cultural heritage. Through the music, sports, and religious gatherings it has hosted over the decades, the coliseum has created countless memories and left a lasting impact on the city. As it continues to evolve and adapt, the Moody Coliseum will undoubtedly continue to inspire and entertain generations to come.

Tables

Table 1: Notable Concerts at the Moody Coliseum (1970-1979)

Table 2: Dallas Chaparrals Season Records at the Moody Coliseum (1967-1973)

Table 3: Recent Renovations to the Moody Coliseum