Barry Manilow at Co-op Live Manchester: Will the show go ahead or is it moving to the AO Arena?

The saga that is Co-op Live just keeps on rolling on, and now acts due to play at Manchester’s new arena are taking precautions. Several have moved their Manchester shows over to the AO Arena whilst Co-op Live remains unopened. 

Take That announced on Thursday night that their shows, five in total, would now be at the AO Arena. This followed rapper A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie confirming he would be performing at the AO this coming Saturday (May 4).  

These changes of venue were announced by Co-op Live in a statement that also included them postponing Keane. The band were due at the arena on May 5. 

The latest performer to mention a potential switch to AO Arena is Barry Manilow. Due at Co-op Live on May 19, the singer gave an update to fans on social media

Is Barry Manilow’s Manchester gig going ahead?  

According to the post, Manilow expects the gig to take place either way, whether this be at Co-op Live or AO Arena. The latest details can be found through the Co-op Live website. 

What is the capacity for Barry Manilow’s Co-op Live gig? 

According to the post, the capacity for the gig at Co-op Live was capped at 12,500. Manilow added that there would be plenty more room if the venue was to change.  At present, tickets are available for Co-op Live through Ticketmaster. These start at around £56.

What did the post on Barry Manilow’s X page say? 

In a post on Barry Manilow’s X page last night, the performer's husband Garry Kief said: “Many of you have expressed your concerns about the ongoing status of the new Co-op Live Arena in Manchester. We share your concerns. Contrary to some opinions, however, we don’t have any double secret inside information on the condition of the building.

“We do know that our brilliant co-promoter,  Danny Betesh at Kennedy Street Enterprises. already has a back up plan and just in case, has reserved the same night….MAY 19th at Manchester’s AO Arena. We also know that we limited capacity to 12,500 guests.  That means that even if we have to move, there will plenty of room for everybody. Right now, that’s a big IF. And we don’t know.

“We promise that we will let you know as soon as we know IF we have to move the concert from Co-op Live to AO Arena. Like you, we would love to have this resolved sooner than later.

“In the meantime, thank you for your patience and understanding while everyone works together to sort this out. Barry and all of us are looking forward to seeing you all on May 19th. Until then…..all best, Garry.”