Everything you need to know about the We Are Manchester gig

Manchester Arena is gearing up to reopen on Saturday 9th September with a phenomenal benefit concert to honour those impacted by the May atrocity.

The success of the One Love Concert at Manchester’s Old Trafford Cricket Ground was one that was viewed on a global stage and rightfully highlighted the resilience, solidarity and love of the families and communities affected by the tragic events of that May night. Manchester Arena is now ready to welcome the public back into its space with a benefit concert, the proceeds of which going to to Manchester Memorial Fund.

Featuring some of the city’s finest talent, including Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, Courteeners, Blossoms, Rick Astley and ‘Longfella’ poet Tony Walsh, our Alex has the low down on what to expect.

The Bands

Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds will be headlining the event, which seems fitting as his brother, Liam, was the surprise finale at One Love. Local bands The Courteneers and Blossoms will be supporting Gallagher with sets earlier in the evening, alongside Eighties pop sensation Rick Astley. Poet Tony Walsh will also be appearing, having united Manchester in the wake of the May attack by reading a revised version of his poem This Is the Place. Walsh recited the poem during a vigil in the city’s Albert Square, which was packed with thousands of mourners. More acts will be announced in the days leading up to the concert.

The Message

We Are Manchester will serve as another reminder, not only of the talent and beauty that the region has consistently churned out, but also of the strength of the people. Those who carried out the attacks intended to strike fear into the hearts of the general public, however, 50,000 people attended the One Love Concert just two weeks after the attacks, and the solidarity and courage was clear for all to see.

The Cause

All profits from the concert will raise money for the Manchester Memorial Fund, a charitable trust overseen by the Lord Mayor of Manchester which will go towards establishing a permanent memorial for the 22nd May attack, which happened as revellers left the Ariana Grande concert at the arena. Councillor Sue Murphy, deputy leader of Manchester City Council, has said – “Those who perpetrate terrorist attacks want to divide us and stifle our freedoms. No one will ever forget the terrible events of 22nd May but Manchester has reacted with love, solidarity and a determination to continue doing the things which make this such a vibrant city…”

Every detail of the memorial will be discussed with the families of those who sadly lost their lives in the attack.

Safety Measures

Photo Credit: Manchester Arena.com

Manchester Arena are launching a significant security overhaul, with all concert goers required to go through additional security and screening upon entry. Additionally, no backpacks or bags larger than 35cm x 40cm x 19cm will be allowed inside the venue. Bag storage will also not be provided.

A spokesperson for the arena said: “Public safety is always our priority and we are doing all we can to keep people safe at our venue, doors will open at 5pm and we are asking all customers to arrive at the Arena in plenty of time and to keep personal items to an absolute minimum.”

The organisers have shown us that safety and security is top of the agenda so that no one will have to feel apprehensive about attending the fundraiser. Tickets, priced at £25 and £30 (plus booking fee) are on sale now and are available from www.eventim.co.uk or by calling 0844 847 8000. Alternatively head to www.ticketmaster.co.uk or call 0844 844 0444.