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Renderings Of Co-op Live’s ‘Smart Bowl’ Revealed
New image renders reveal the interior of Co-op Live’s innovative ‘smart bowl,’ which takes “inspiration from conversations with Bruce Springsteen and venue investor Harry Styles,” according to a press release.
Tim Leiweke, CEO of the building’s developer Oak View Group (Pollstar’s parent company), spoke to Bruce Springsteen during the opening of Staples Centre in LA, where the artist mentioned a disconnect between the performance and corporate attendees. Leiweke took that feedback, which chimed with similar feedback from Styles, on board when approaching Co-op Live’s design, including the view from the stage and the overall bowl atmosphere.
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The bowl was designed with an intimate atmosphere in mind, and will feature no corporate branding. The suites lining the edges of level 2 will utilize soundproof black curtains “to maximize the impact of the shows sound and lighting.”
According to OVG, the building, which is set to open in December 2023, “will boast the largest floor space of any indoor venue [in the UK], a significantly lower ceiling, and tiered seating that brings fans closer to the artist. Unlike venues designed primarily for sporting tournaments or public exhibitions, Co-op Live is the first of its kind to be built around concert acoustics.”
330 tonnes of rigging capacity, and eight loading bays will “ensure the ability to bring some of the industry’s biggest live productions to Manchester.” Aside from blockbuster shows, fans can look forward to 32 bars, restaurants, and lounges, offering locally sourced and sustainable food and drink.
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The 23,500-capacity venue is currently under construction on Manchester’s Etihad Campus. The project is a joint venture between Oak View Group and City Football Group, alongside private investor Harry Styles who has been “instrumental in the design, offering personal insight having visited major venues and arenas worldwide,” according to the press release.
“Co-op Live is about the fan and the artist, it is specially designed to deliver the best sound, atmosphere and experience for everyone who walks through our doors,” said President of OVG International, Jessica Koravos, and added, “Innovative technology and design will bring a unique live entertainment experience to the UK.”