As Manchester’s newest large-scale arena, Co-op Live gets closer to opening its doors, new images have revealed the interior design of the venue’s main bowl.
The ‘smart bowl’, designed with an intimate atmosphere in mind, will feature no corporate branding, ensuring both the fan and artist can fully immerse themselves in the show. The suites lining the edges of level 2 will also utilise soundproof black curtains to maximise the impact of the show’s sound and lighting.
The UK’s only music-first arena will boast the largest floor space of any indoor venue, a significantly lower ceiling, and tiered seating that brings fans closer to the artist. Unlike venues designed primarily for sporting tournaments or public exhibitions, Co-op Live is the first of its kind to be built around concert acoustics.
“Co-op Live is about the fan and the artist, it is specially designed to deliver the best sound, atmosphere and experience for everyone who walks through our doors,” said president of OVG International, Jessica Koravos. “Innovative technology and design will bring a unique live entertainment experience to the UK.”
Set to open in December 2023, the 23,500-capacity venue is currently under construction on Manchester’s Etihad Campus. The project is a joint venture between Oak View Group and City Football Group, alongside private investor Harry Styles who has been instrumental in the design, offering personal insight having visited major venues and arenas worldwide.
“I am incredibly happy to be partnering with OVG on their plans for Co-op Live,” Styles revealed in 2020. “Manchester is an incredible city filled with incredible people and I couldn’t be happier to be involved in this project. It very much feels like coming home.”
Co-op Live’s 330 tonnes of rigging capacity and 8 loading bays ensure the ability to bring some of the industry’s biggest live productions to Manchester.
The fan experience will be further heightened by 32 bars, restaurants, and lounges, including a locally sourced and sustainable food and drink offering.
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