AO Arena

AO Arena is Manchester's Best Entertainment Venue, managed and operated by ASM Global. Since its establishment in 1995, it has evolved into one of the busiest venues globally and the largest indoor arena in Europe. The arena has welcomed renowned artists including U2, The Rolling Stones, Madonna, Lady Gaga, Pavarotti, and hosted the record-breaking 2010/2011 residency by local comedian Peter Kay. It has also hosted significant events in the UK sporting calendar such as the 2002 Commonwealth Games, 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. The AO Arena has played a pivotal role in the city's rich musical heritage, hosting historic shows by local bands including 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. Attracting over one million visitors annually, the 23,000 capacity Arena is a former recipient of the industry's prestigious International Venue of the Year award. In 2020, online electricals retailer AO became the headline sponsor of the Arena, demonstrating their commitment to providing a platform for fans and artists from all over the world, ensuring they are greeted with the famous AO smile. The venue continues to be a key player in the entertainment industry and has the potential for further growth and success.