Greater Manchester icon Peter Kay to open Co-op Live

We've announced today that legendary comedian Peter Kay will open Manchester’s state of the art venue with his current record breaking tour when it first welcomes fans in April. The 23,500-seat arena is the largest in the UK and will offer an unparalleled fan experience that will set a new benchmark for large venues around the world.

Kay will perform at Co-op Live on 23 and 24 April 2024 to kickstart a new chapter in the city’s revered cultural story, having delighted fans across the UK for well over two decades as one of most successful stand-up comedians of all time. The venue’s unique bowl design promises a fittingly intimate environment, bringing fans closer to the artist than at other arenas of equivalent size. 

Gary Roden, Executive Director and General Manager, Co-op Live, says: "When you think of Manchester, it’s hard not to think of Peter Kay. He embodies what this city is about, and to have him headlining Co-op Live is tremendously exciting. We’re creating an arena that is truly part of the community around it, and having Peter as our opening act is a perfect reminder of that.”

Aiming to become Europe’s most sustainable arena, Co-op Live places people and planet first. The venue will be 100% electric, include rainwater recycling technology and operates with reusable cups to significantly reduce plastic usage across the site. In line with and supporting Co-op’s core brand values, the venue’s ‘Gigs that Give Back’ will generate at least £1 million annually for the Co-op Foundation to support causes on a local and national scale, including delivering on its new youth-led strategy.

Co-op Members will gain first-in-line access to Peter Kay tickets through a designated presale from 21 February 2024. General sale tickets will be available through Co-op Live from 23 February 2024.