Our Mission
The Save Starlight mission is to repurpose San Diego’s abandoned historic Starlight Bowl, restoring and modernizing the facility under community collaboration into an inclusive and innovative interaction of arts, culture, and education for all.
“This venue is essential to San Diego and Balboa Park’s history. No matter what kind of show or performance you can recall, everyone has the memory of the joy and magic they experienced here.”
About Us
SAVE STARLIGHT - A 501(C)3 NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION
The Save Starlight organization’s goal is to preserve The Starlight Bowls history and memories and to also create a new and adaptable platform for future events and generations.
The Starlight Bowl, a 4,000 seat outdoor amphitheater, was originally commissioned by the Ford Motor Company for the 1935 California-Pacific Exposition. The venue has grown and evolved over the years turning into one of San Diego’s favorite, historic and precious gems. Families of multi-generations have developed a passion and dedication to Starlight's events, sadden to see it abandoned in despair. Most people remember The Starlight Bowl for its famous musical theater shows it produced during the summers in San Diego. However, the previous tenants have left and the venue has been abandoned for almost 15 years.
Our First Great Event
〰️
Our First Great Event 〰️
Click the CD to visitPeter Deluke.com
April 26, 2026
A Night to Honor a Living Legend, Peter DeLuke at the Starlight Bowl Fundraiser Gala
Peter performed at the Starlight Bowl itself — leaving behind stories, music, and memories that still echo in the dome.
On April 26th, we gather not only to raise funds for the restoration of the historic Starlight Bowl — we gather to honor a man whose life represents the very spirit of Starlight itself.
At 96 years young, Peter DeLuke stands as a bridge between the golden age of American music and the future we are building at Starlight Bowl.
That evening, Save Starlight will present Peter with a historic plaque — the first plaque ever to be permanently displayed at Starlight Bowl — recognizing his extraordinary contribution to music and to the San Diego community.
A Career That Spans Generations
Peter DeLuke’s impressive professional career began as a reed player at just 15 years old.
He earned his B.S. from the prestigious Crane School of Music and later received both a Master’s Degree and Professional Diploma from Columbia University.
He served as Supervisor of Music (K-12) for Hastings Public Schools in New York, shaping generations of young musicians.
Performing with legendary bandleaders including:
Benny Goodman, Jimmy Dorsey, Charlie Barnet, Gene Krupa, Buddy Rich, Buddy Morrow,
Mel Lewis, Art Mooney, Shep Fields, and Sammy Kaye.
And sharing the stage with iconic vocalists including:
Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Mel Tormé, Rosemary Clooney, Ella Fitzgerald,
Sarah Vaughan, Julius LaRosa, and Perry Como.
In San Diego, Peter has been a featured soloist with:
The UCSD Wind Ensemble, performed with the Duke Ellington Orchestra at Copley Symphony Hall, and appeared with the San Diego Chamber Orchestra.
Peter performed at the Starlight Bowl itself — leaving behind stories, music, and memories that still echo in the dome.
Why This Night Matters
Starlight Bowl has hosted legends.
Now, we honor one.
As we work to restore and reopen this historic Balboa Park treasure, we begin by recognizing those who carried its music forward. Peter DeLuke’s plaque will become the first permanent tribute installed at Starlight — a symbol that the past and future now stand together.
When Starlight reopens, his name will greet generations to come.
This is more than a tribute.
It is the beginning of Starlight’s living legacy wall.
Not only did Starlight host many stage productions, it also hosted music legends.
ADA Facility Improvements
The Starlight Bowl has been authorized to receive $500,000 for ADA Facility Improvements.
We are excited to share that the Housing and Urban Development/EDI Appropriations Community Project has appropriated $500,000 specifically for the Starlight Bowl to make necessary ADA facility improvements. We have increased our efforts to advocate for Starlight, and our hard work is paying off. Save Starlight wants to expressly thank Congresswoman Sara Jacobs, Mayor Todd Gloria, and Carleton Overstreet, Jr. for their efforts to make this happen.
Thank you to our supporters
