Manchester Arena will reopen with a benefit gig featuring Noel Gallagher

On 22nd May, a concert by Ariana Grande at Manchester’s Arena was hit by a terrorist attack. Now, the Arena is set to reopen on 9th September with a benefit concert set to honour those who were impacted by the attack, as well as mark a return for live music to the venue.

We Are Manchester is set to feature Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, Blossoms, Courteeners, Rick Astley and Longfella poet Tony Walsh, as well as a pre-show DJ set from Clint Boon, with more acts still to be announced. All profits raised will go to the Manchester Memorial Fund, helping to raise money for a commemorative memorial.

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”.

She continued: “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. It is entirely fitting that the re-opening event should be a memorial fundraiser. Plans for the form and location of any permanent commemorations will be determined in liaison with the families of victims and others affected by the attack”.

Manchester Arena’s General Manager James Allen 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 20 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”.

Tickets for the event will go on sale from 9am on Thursday 17th August, and more information can be found on the Manchester Arena website.