Co-op Live has released renders for the interior of their ‘smart bowl’ the UK’s only music-first indoor arena. Currently under construction on Manchester’s Etihad Campus, the venue is set to open in December 2023 with a capacity of 23,500.
The project is a joint venture between Oak View Group and City Football Group, alongside private investor Harry Styles. “I am incredibly happy to be partnering with OVG on their plans for Co-op Live,” said Harry Styles. “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.”
The bowl will feature no corporate branding, and the suites lining the edges of level two will utilise soundproof black curtains to maximise the impact of the shows sound and lighting. It will boast the largest floor space of any indoor venue, a significantly lower ceiling, tiered seating, 330 tonnes of rigging capacity and 8 loading bays. 32 bars, restaurants, and lounges, including a locally sourced and sustainable food and drink offering will fill the remaining space.
“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 Jessica Koravos, OVG International President, who added, “Innovative technology and design will bring a unique live entertainment experience to the UK.”
