Live music returns with Sam Fender gig at Gosforth Park
SAM Fender performed to a sellout crowd to open Newcastle’s socially distanced music venue.
The North Shields chart topper played to 2,500 fans, at what is claimed to be the world’s first socially-distanced large concert venue.
Sam, 26, is the first to perform at the Virgin Money Unity Arena, a venue built especially to stage live music, comedy and theatre safely, after the coronavirus pandemic led to gigs and festivals being cancelled.
Fans in groups of up to five watched the concert on 500 raised platforms.
The audience were asked to arrive by private transport and park up before being led to their viewing areas.
Sam will return to the same venue for a second gig on Thursday.
Other acts, music legend Sir Van Morrison, The Libertines and Maximo Park will follow throughout August and into September.
Comedians Jimmy Carr and Bill Bailey will also play at the temporary arena at Newcastle Racecourse, Gosforth Park.
Helen Page, group brand and marketing director at Virgin Money, said: “We are delighted to play a part in bringing back live music events as we start to emerge from lockdown.
“This feels like a unique opportunity to celebrate music and all the wonderful emotions that come with experiencing it live alongside other music fans.”
Promoters SD Concerts said the safety of the audience is being protected, with each viewing platform having its own table, chairs and fridge.
People from the same household will arrive at the venue, park up then enjoy the concert from their own private area.