Manchester’s Co-op Live is now open with none other than homegrown comic Peter Kay welcoming its debut audience. Comedy, sports and family events will be on offer at this state-of-the-art arena – the biggest of its kind in the UK. But, nestled in the heart of the UK’s music capital, this is a venue made for music.
Designed with gig-goers in mind, it promises to offer an unrivalled live experience while also giving back to the community and the planet. Rivalling iconic venues like London’s O2 and New York’s Madison Square Garden, Co-op Live is set to cement the city’s spotlight on the global stage.
Co-op Live: A groundbreaking new venue for Manchester
Made for Music
Unlike other indoor arenas, Co-op Live is purpose-built for live music. Its state-of-the-art facilities mean it’s already becoming the must-play venue for world-class acts. Olivia Rodrigo, Eric Clapton, Niki Minaj, Pearl Jam, Stevie Nicks and Justin Timberlake are just some of the massive names already booked. The venue is also committed to supporting emerging talent and providing opportunities for young musicians and artists to showcase their work. Through partnerships with local schools and community organisations, it aims to nurture the next generation of creative talent.
More Than a Gig Venue
From exhilarating sports to sidesplitting comedy, Co-op Live promises to offer much more than music. Fittingly, homegrown talent Peter Kay is the first big name comic booked – opening the venue in April. Family-friendly events and interactive shows are also firmly on the programming agenda too. And aside from what’s on, a visit to Co-op live is an experience elevated beyond the usual cavernous arena events. There are 32 bars, restaurants and lounges on site. The biggest being 26m long and others more intimate and exclusive. The canal side bar meanwhile is a tranquil space to relax.
Bigger and Better
Co-op live is the UK’s biggest indoor music venue and one of the top 10 biggest in Europe. With a 23,000 capacity, it can welcome more visitors than both New York’s Madison Square Garden and London’s O2 Arena. But the vision for Co-op live wasn’t just to be the biggest. It was to also be the best. Its state-of-the-art design incorporates the latest technology for unparalleled acoustics and visuals, ensuring an immersive experience for gig goers. It’s also cleverly designed to mean that all gig-goers get the best possible view and a feeling of intimacy even at huge concerts.
Designed for the Future
Sustainability is at the heart of Co-op Live which seamlessly blends innovation with environmental consciousness. Optimising energy efficiency and minimise environmental impact, it uses renewable energy sources and has been built with eco-friendly materials. The venue sets a new standard for environmentally responsible entertainment venues and green spaces are a key part of its plans too. Over time, venue operators will be improving the canal side area and pedestrian environment, designed to support diverse vegetation and local wildlife. Plans are also in place for a ‘green screen’ of plants on the side of the venue itself.
Everyone is Welcome
Accessibility and inclusivity are not an afterthought at Co-op Live. The venue has been built to ensure nobody is limited in the opportunity to enjoy its impressive programme of events. With step-free access is at every entrance, there is ample wheelchair-accessible seating and facilities are gender neutral. There are sensory-friendly facilities and dedicated staff and resources are available to assist varying needs. Built next to Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium, the venue is relatively close to both Piccadilly and Victoria train stations and has excellent transport links.
Manchester in Mind
A world-class programme of events will draw visitors to Manchester from far and wide, bolstering tourism and securing the city’s spotlight on the global stage. The venue has also pledged an annual sum of £1m+ to help support good causes in the local community. Complimentary ticket ballots for local residents will be held for select shows, and the venue will host a quarterly open door event. The economic and cultural impact Co-op Live will have on Manchester can’t be understated.
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