This weekend will see the highly anticipated re-opening of the Manchester Arena with the We Are Manchester concert – three months after the terror attack that claimed the lives of 22 people.
Thousands will attend the fundraiser which will signify the start of a new era for the refurbished venue.
An image was shared by the Arena on Thursday of the renovated area where the explosion took place in hope it would prepare those who were affected by the atrocity carried out on May 22.
Headlined by Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, the charity concert has attracted many big names to the stage in an event that will see all proceeds donated to the Manchester Memorial Fund.
It’s expected that over 14,000 people will attend the benefit gig after tickets sold out in a matter of minutes last month.
Start time
The Arena will open its doors at 5pm with warm-up DJ Clint Boon starting at 6:30pm on Saturday, September 9.
Manchester poet Tony Walsh – aka Longfella – will also read This Is The Place before the start of the main event.
The line-up includes Nadine Coyle, Pixie Lott, Bugzy Malone, Blossoms, Courteeners, Rick Astley and Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds.
Louisa Johnson was also due to perform but pulled out this week due to illness.
— Louisa (@louisa) September 4, 2017
Security
In relation to heightened security, all customers will be screened before entering the venue. Bags that are bigger than 35cm x 40cm x 19cm will not be allowed inside the Arena.
Travel
Due to the extra security checks, the organisers have advised ticket holders to allow extra time for their commute.
Free Metroshuttle services are available between Piccadilly and Victoria train stations and tram services will continue as normal throughout the day and night.
Weather
RAIN-FREE: It looks like the sun will be shining ahead of the event
Summer is officially over, something that we are particularly used to in Manchester.
This weekend is no exception from the usual outlook.
Rain and thunderstorms are predicted for Saturday morning but the Met Office is forecasting periods of sun just in time for the concert.
Without any rain on the horizon, there’s sure to be a great vibe around the city before things kick off.
Proceeds
#WEAREMANCHESTER #WESTANDTOGETHER
pic.twitter.com/9rEdZs2ph3— Noel Gallagher (@NoelGallagher) August 16, 2017
Just like the One Love Manchester concert, ticket money will be donated to a charitable fund in relation to the attack.
Profits will go towards the establishment of a permanent memorial in Manchester for those who were sadly killed in the explosion on May 22.
Coverage
For those who didn’t manage to get tickets, there will be a chance to listen to the concert.
Radio stations KEY 103, Radio X and BBC Radio Manchester will broadcast the event.
Extra information
TRAGEDY: 22 people died in the blast at the Manchester Arena
A suite will also be available in the arena providing emotional support for those attending the concert.
