Gearing up for a Record Breaking 2017

Metro Radio Arena, owned and managed by SMG Ltd is firmly on track to enjoy a record breaking 2017, with the start of the year seeing major announcements including Ed Sheeran, John Legend, Queen & Adam Lambert and a 25 performance run of the spectacular Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.

In its 22nd year, the venue has welcomed over 14 Million people through its doors since opening, with welcoming 200,000 people through the doors already.

Ailsa Oliver, General Manager for Metro Radio Arena said “The first months of 2017 has seen amazing events at the venue with sell out performances for Strictly Come Dancing Live, Jack Whitehall, Kings of Leon, Ed Sheeran, Take That, Micky Flanagan, Steps and The Killers. There is a real passion for live entertainment in the North East and we thank local fans for their continued support along with a massive thank you to local and national promoters for bringing world class events to the region.”

2017 success continues with events including the iconic musician Phil Collins, the hilarious John Bishop, rock band Blink 182, the firm family favourite Disney on Ice Passport to Adventure, and the hottest ticket in town Little Mix.
Records already confirmed include comedy genius Micky Flanagan with the Highest Capacity at a Comedy Night and went on to perform for second date, and Little Mix will be setting a venue record for the most performances by a girl band at the Metro Radio Arena in a year, as they take to the stage for four sell out performances in the autumn.

Ian Coburn, Head of UK Live Comedy, Live Nation said “Absolutely elated to bring Micky back to Newcastle, the crowds are always fantastic, we are pleased to be part of their record breaking year and look forward to bringing more comedy to Newcastle”

The North East’s largest venue, continually looks at trends in the industry to ensure it is leading in opportunities. A major investment in 2017 includes a brand new draping system. This gives the venue further flexibility on formatting styles allowing them to attract new events to the area, such as the recently hosted Adam Ant and Professor Brian Cox along with the forthcoming Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat in December.

They have also welcomed in 2017 some fantastic new events including The Big North Tattoo Show, Impractical Jokers ‘Where’s Larry’ Tour and Enter Shikari.

John Sharkey Executive Vice President, Europe Operations for SMG Ltd said “The North East is well known in the Industry for delivering some of the best atmospheres at concerts, which brings both customers and artists back to the Metro Radio Arena time and time again”

SMG Ltd who own and manage the Metro Radio Arena are celebrating their 40th anniversary this year.

FUN FACTS:
8093 portions of chips – equivalent to 1.2 tonne of potatoes
5755 Hot Dogs – equivalent to the height of 2.25 of the empire state building when stacked one on top of the other
98578 pints sold – equivalent to 12322 gallons
713 pizzas sold – equivalent to 890 Frisbees
1848lbs of confectionary – that’s a lot of happy tummies!