Hampton Roads law firm secures naming rights to The Dome

Virginia Beach’s massive concert venue, The Dome, is getting a new name.

Norfolk-based law firm Rutter Mills has secured the naming rights to the 70,000-square-foot indoor-outdoor venue, now officially being called The Dome by Rutter Mills. The financial terms and contract length were not disclosed in the Wednesday announcement, and neither venue operator Live Nation Entertainment nor Rutter Mills immediately returned requests for comment.

A new version of The Dome opened in May 2025 as part of the $350 million Atlantic Park project backed by music icon Pharrell Williams and Venture Realty Group, introducing a 5,000-person-capacity space.

Live Nation, which operates and manages programming for the city-owned venue with Denver-based sports and entertainment company Oak View Group, says the venue’s return has reenergized the Oceanfront, already creating more than 200 permanent jobs and driving increased foot traffic to nearby restaurants, shops and local businesses.

The original Alan B. Shepard Convention Center, affectionately known as The Dome due to its shape, was a popular venue that shaped Virginia Beach culture for decades, hosting performers such as Louis Armstrong, Jimi Hendrix and The Rolling Stones. But the aging venue closed in 1994 and was razed later that year. Three Dog Night, the final act to perform at the old Dome, played the first show at the new venue.

Rutter Mills says the partnership between the firm and The Dome brings together two names deeply rooted in the Virginia Beach community. The firm opened in 1959, one year after the original Dome opened.

“The Dome by Rutter Mills represents more than a name — it’s a commitment to the future of this city,” Brother Rutter, managing partner at Rutter Mills, said in a statement. “We’re proud to support a venue that will create unforgettable experiences, foster economic growth and continue to be a gathering place for our community.”

The firm recently expanded its local presence by opening a Virginia Beach office.

“The Dome has always held a special place in Virginia Beach’s music story, and this partnership builds on that legacy in a way that feels authentic to the community,” Rob Scolaro, Live Nation senior vice president and head of venue sales, said in a statement.

Headquartered in Norfolk, Rutter Mills also has locations in Virginia Beach and Newport News, with more than 100 employees.