Barry Manilow may move Co-Op Live show to rival arena if issues continue
‘There will be plenty of room for everybody,’ the singer said
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Barry Manilow has revealed he’s considering moving his forthcoming show at Manchester’s Co-op Live arena to another venue if technical issues continue.
The singer, 80, released a statement on X/Twitter on Friday (3 May) after fans with tickets to his concert at Co-op Live, scheduled to take place on 19 May, grew concerned it would be cancelled.
Manilow said his tour promoter had already booked Co-Op Live’s rival venue, AO Arena, for the same night in case problems persist.
In the statement, the “Can’t Smile Without You” singer said he “shared” fans “concerns” about Co-Op Live, adding the AO alternative would comfortably hold all ticket holders.
“We limited capacity to 12,500 guests. That means that even if we have to move, there will plenty of room for everybody,” he said.
“Right now, that’s a big IF. And we don’t know.”
It comes after Take That announced they were moving their Co-Op Live shows to AO this week due to the arena’s “ongoing technical issues”.
Meanwhile, British pop rock group Keane, who were supposed to perform on Sunday, postponed their gig due to issues “entirely beyond our control”.
Adding to the litany of problems, US musician Olivia Rodrigo’s Guts tour performances, scheduled for Friday and Saturday, were also cancelled on Wednesday.
Rapper A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie’s show on Wednesday was cancelled 10 minutes after doors were set to open, after an AC vent detached from the ceiling during sound check.
Enjoy unlimited access to 100 million ad-free songs and podcasts with Amazon Music
Sign up now for a 4 month free trial (3 months for non-Prime members)
Enjoy unlimited access to 100 million ad-free songs and podcasts with Amazon Music
Sign up now for a 4 month free trial (3 months for non-Prime members)
The artist has also moved his show to the AO Arena, which is scheduled to go ahead on Saturday.
In a statement on X, Co-op Live said: “Following the events that led to the cancelled A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie show on 1 May, we have decided to take a short pause to events at Co-op Live to fully ensure the safety and security of fans and artists visiting the venue.
“This time will allow for an independent inspection of all elements of the arena ceiling.
“At this time, we do not expect further impact on our opening season. We are aware our actions have frustrated and angered ticket-holders. We know you’ve incurred significant disruption, and are finding a way to help make it right.”
“We are taking the pause to think about the best ways to do that.”
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments