For the next in our Shine A Light series where we tell you a little more about one of our wonderful supporters, we’re introducing Manchester Arena.
The iconic Manchester Arena won inaugural “Give it Up” award at our 30th Birthday Bash and it’s not hard to see why.
If you didn’t already know, Manchester Arena is one of the busiest venues in the world and the largest indoor arena in Europe. Since opening in 1995, the Arena has hosted the biggest names in live entertainment including U2, The Rolling Stones, Madonna, Lady Gaga, Pavarotti and the record-breaking 2010/2011 residency by local comedian Peter Kay.
In addition to live music, the venue has also staged some of the biggest events in the UK sporting calendar including the 2012 Olympic basketball warm-up match between team USA and GB, the 2008 FINA World Swimming Championships and international boxing bouts by Mike Tyson, David Haye, Joe Calzaghe and local champions Ricky Hatton, Amir Khan and Anthony Crolla.
Manchester Arena has also played a key part in the city’s rich musical heritage with historic shows by local bands Take That, Oasis, Elbow, New Order, James, Happy Mondays, The Charlatans, Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, M People, Doves, Inspiral Carpets, The Verve, Simply Red and The Courteeners.
Manchester Arena have been Forever Manchester supporters for over 5 years and in that time have become an important part of the Forever Manchester movement.
They donate tickets each month for us to use as prizes for Captain Manchester’s Magical Tombola as well tickets to help us run raffles and other fundraising initiatives. They also have Forever Manchester posters on the gang ways of the venue to help us spread the word about Forever Manchester to The Arena’s thousands of visitors.
Manchester Arena also help us engage with our local communities by donating spare tickets for community groups to attend gigs. This has been helpful in helping us build trust and connections with people living in communities across Greater Manchester allowing us to spread our message and support even further.
This year is a big year for Manchester Arena as they celebrate their 25th Birthday. Due to the current situation things have had to change but the team have been busy planning and organising something really special to celebrate all while raising money for a number of charities including Forever Manchester. It’s too early to say exactly what’s happening but watch this space and all will be revealed!
Date added: 8th July 2020
