The Courteeners, Blossoms and Rick Astley amongst other artists set to perform at the benefit show on 9 September
It’s been closed over twelve weeks following the tragic events of 22 May, but Manchester Arena is set to reopen its door next month with an all-star benefit concert on Saturday 9 September - featuring a host of Manchester-made music stars including Noel Gallagher, The Courteeners, Blossoms and eighties crooner Rick Astley.
DJ Clint Boon will get proceedings underway with a pre-show set, while poet Tony Walsh will perform his iconic ode to Manchester, This is the Place - memorably read at the vigil following the attack.
More acts are to be confirmed, though we’re guessing the line-up won’t include Noel's brother Liam… who condemned Noel for not appearing at the One Love concert arranged by Ariana Grande.
As well as honouring the 22 concertgoers who lost their lives in the suicide bombing, the ‘We Are Manchester’ benefit concert will mark the official reopening of the Arena and raise money for the Manchester Memorial Fund.
Announced by the council this week, this will go towards establishing a permanent memorial for victims of the arena attack.
Councillor Sue Murphy, deputy leader of Manchester City 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 re-opening of the Arena, a major venue which attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors, as a powerful symbol of this defiant and resilient spirit."
Tickets for We Are Manchester will go on sale on Thursday 17 August (9am) and are priced from £25
James Allen, General Manager of Manchester Arena said: “May’s events will never be forgotten, but they will not stop us – or Mancunian music fans – from coming together to enjoy live music.
"Manchester Arena has celebrated over twenty years hosting some of the greatest musical talent of all time, and the significant economic and cultural impact that this has on the city means that this legacy must continue.
“Public safety is always our priority and we are doing all we can to keep people safe at our venue. Doors will open at 5pm. Customers are highly encouraged to arrive early.”
Tickets for We Are Manchester will go on sale at 9am, Thursday 17 August and are priced from £25
