AS CONSTRUCTION work continues around him, Tim Leiweke’s optimism is unwavering.
The self-described ‘director of enthusiasm’ at Co-op Live is confident that Manchester’s new arena – the biggest in the UK – will finally open its doors next week.
But his exclusive interview with the M.E.N. follows a turbulent few days for the venue.
Hours before a test event last Saturday, some ticket holders were told that they could no longer attend. The capacity for the event which featured a performance by Rick Astley was cut from around 11,000 to 4,000 amid concerns raised by emergency services.
Two days later, the arena announced its official opening – two performances by Peter Kay starting the following night – would have to be pushed back by a week. On Friday, Co-op Live announced that the Bolton comedian’s shows have been postponed again.
The Black Keys, who were supposed to be performing at the venue yesterday, have also been moved.
American rapper Boogie Wit da Hoodie is now set to open the building on Wednesday – something Tim ‘never thought’ he would be saying.
The following day, Olivia Rodrigo’s team – some of whom are already at the venue – will start setting up for the US singer’s two shows starting on Friday, which will be the arena’s first at full capacity. Contingency plans are in place, but Tim insists: “We’ll be fine.”
Denne historien er fra April 28, 2024-utgaven av MEN on Sunday.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent ? Logg på
Denne historien er fra April 28, 2024-utgaven av MEN on Sunday.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent? Logg på
Bethell relishing Old Trafford T20 decider
JACOB Bethell was pleased to get down to business for England after admitting he struggled to shut out the external noise during a low-key international debut.
Is this turning point that boss so badly needs?
Victory buys Ten Hag breathing space, but now United must capitalise on it
Food for thought for the Insta diners
Why we need to disconnect from our phones for the best eating out experience
'It would normally be packed but now! it's a GHOST TOWN'
Traders warn they won't survive the loss of spaces after water company closed car park
Man used trafficked woman to make more than £100k
A MAN profited from the exploitation of a vulnerable woman to the tune of more than £100,000.
'You imagine there would be a lot of barking but it was silent?
The devastating Manchester Dogs Home fire ten years on
Couple's home hit by car for THIRD time
Pair forced to evacuate property
Shopkeeper faces £20k costs to undo changes he made
Business owner was refused permission for work already done
Disorder'more anti-government than racism'
Barrister makes claim as thug who attacked bus during trouble outside hotel housing asylum seekers jailed
'There's no characters left'
Traders and customers' sadness as shutters come down on market for final time