The Co-op Live Arena in Manchester is set to open its doors after years in the making, with a test event headlined by Rick Astley. The venue, which is expected to become a major entertainment hub in the North, has secured a lineup of huge acts, including Peter Kay, Barry Manilow, Olivia Rodrigo, Take That, Eric Clapton, and Liam Gallagher. Owned by the City Football Group and Oakview Music Group, with an investment from Irving Azoff, the arena aims to provide a unique experience for artists and fans by banning advertising during performances and focusing on artist-fan connections.
The Co-op Live Arena features an innovative floor plan that brings even fans at the back closer to the action, with a capacity for 9,200 standing fans. With a focus on strong acoustics and environmental sustainability, the venue offers a stadium-like experience for audiences attending shows. The arena has received strong support from artists like Harry Styles, who made a minor investment in the development, suggesting a successful start to the venue’s opening.
The Co-op Live Arena executive director, Gary Roden, envisions the venue as a cultural landmark in Manchester, providing space for various events beyond music, including combat sports. The arena offers modern suites and a gym for artists to unwind backstage, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive experience for performers. By prioritizing the artist-fan connection and providing state-of-the-art facilities, the arena aims to deliver unforgettable experiences for both parties.
The arena’s opening has spurred competition with the nearby AO Arena, which has undergone a renovation to compete with the Co-op Live. While both venues aim to bring major events to Manchester, Roden believes there is enough demand for both arenas to thrive. The challenge lies in attracting artists who traditionally book the older venue to try out the new one, as both arenas vie for top talent and exclusive shows. Despite the competitive landscape, the Co-op Live Arena is poised to offer a fresh, artist-centric approach to entertainment in the region.
With a focus on quality sound, fan experience, and artist comfort, the Co-op Live Arena is set to revolutionize the entertainment scene in Manchester. The venue’s unique features, including the innovative floor plan, strong acoustics, and ban on advertising, set it apart from traditional arenas. By prioritizing the artist-fan connection and offering a diverse lineup of events, the arena aims to attract a wide audience and establish itself as a premier entertainment destination in the North. As major acts gear up to perform at the venue, the Co-op Live Arena is ready to make a lasting impact on Manchester’s cultural landscape.
