The Bayfront Center Complex first opened its doors in January of 1965 to four tapings of Ted Mack’s Original Amateur Hour, the American Idol of yesteryear. After some finishing touches on the facility the Bayfront Center officially opened it’s doors on May 6, 1965. This location featured not only what is now The Mahaffey Theater, but the impressive Bayfront Center Arena along Downtown St. Petersburg’s scenic waterfront. The venue would go on to showcase performances ranging from The Florida Orchestra, Barnum & Bailey’s Circus to the largest Rock n’ Roll acts of the time.