Noel leads all-star cast for Arena reopening
NOEL Gallagher, The Courteeners, Blossoms and Rick Astley will be among the all-star guests to perform at a huge benefit concert to officially reopen the Manchester Arena after the May terror attack.
The special benefit concert on Saturday September 9 will mark the official reopening of the Arena, and will honour all those affected by the bombing atrocities. The We Are Manchester gig will feature some of the city’s finest talent, alongside some of the biggest names in music.
Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, The Courteeners, Blossoms, Rick Astley and ‘Longfella’ poet Tony Walsh will perform to their hometown Manchester crowds along with a pre show DJ set from Clint Boon, with more acts to be confirmed in the days ahead. All profits from the concert will raise money for the Manchester Memorial Fund, a charitable trust overseen by the Lord Mayor of Manchester which will go towards establishing a permanent memorial for the May 22 attack.
Coun Sue Murphy, deputy leader of Manchester council, said: “Those who perpetrate terrorist attacks want to divide us and stifle our freedoms. No one will ever forget the terrible events of 22 May but Manchester has reacted with love, solidarity and a determination to continue doing the things which make this such a vibrant city.
“We welcome the reopening of the Arena, a major venue which attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors, as a powerful symbol of this defiant and resilient spirit. It is entirely fitting that the reopening event should be a memorial fundraiser. Plans for the form and location of any permanent commemorations will be determined in liaison with the families of victims and others affected by the attack.” Arena bosses have confirmed that all customers will be required to go through additional security and screening upon arrival, and no backpacks or bags larger than 35cm x 40cm x 19cm will be allowed inside the venue. Bag storage will not be provided.
Tickets, priced at £25 and £30 (plus booking fee), will go on sale at 9am tomorrow at www.eventim. co.uk or by calling 0844 847 8000 and at www.ticketmaster.co.uk or by calling 0844 844 0444.