ITS OFFICIAL!

MTV EUROPE MUSIC AWARDS AT LIVERPOOL 2008

We Know! :colgate:

And Paul beat you to it..
http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=541687

(You'll probably get your wrists slapped cause this isn't a construction thread... but it is a cause worth shouting about!)

oops! your right!! sorry guys i was not thinking, just heard about it on RADIO ONE! Could not believe it. How AMAZING is this news....



...Forgive me!

Amazing news........; )

Liverpool secures MTV Awards (From Insider)

MTV Networks International has this morning announced that Liverpool will be the host city for the 15th annual MTV Europe Music Awards in 2008. In what will be a highlight of the 2008 European Capital of Culture programme, this will be only the third time that the UK has hosted the awards. Previously the event has been held in London (1996) and Edinburgh (2003). The awards will held at the Echo Arena Liverpool and broadcast live on 6 November 2008. The Liverpool bid to host the awards was led by the Liverpool Culture Company and the Arena with support from the Northwest Regional Development Agency.

ITS OFFICIAL!

MTV EUROPE MUSIC AWARDS AT LIVERPOOL 2008

Have just seen it on North West Tonight, great news and will put a very large spot light on the city:banana:

Honest I am not whinging:ohno:but should this thread be on the main metro or beacon, as forthcoming attractions at the ACC would be better discussed there, remember this is a Construction thread.

Have just seen it on North West Tonight, great news and will put a very large spot light on the city:banana:

Honest I am not whinging:ohno:but should this thread be on the main metro or beacon, as forthcoming attractions at the ACC would be better discussed there, remember this is a Construction thread.



Absolutely WOODY, you are not whinging at all! I just F****D up big time, i was in work and heard about this "BIG NEWS" on Radio One! I could not help myself and did not think, and created a thread about it because i was so freakin excited!!!

My apologies to all who read the threads, it is my mistake!!!

Absolutely WOODY, you are not whinging at all! I just F****D up big time, i was in work and heard about this "BIG NEWS" on Radio One! I could not help myself and did not think, and created a thread about it because i was so freakin excited!!!

My apologies to all who read the threads, it is my mistake!!!

Thanks franno, with the ACC getting pretty good business even before its opened, its own thread dedicated to forthcomming attractions is a must :banana:

Thanks franno, with the ACC getting pretty good business even before its opened, its own thread dedicated to forthcomming attractions is a must :banana:

Thanks Wody! :) And thanks Paul D for getting there before me!! Obvioulsy your just as excited as i am to get this kind of information posted!


I did not mean to get there before anyone else, nor did i mean to ruin the construction of the threads!!

I just literally heard this news on Radio One in work and could not believe it!! I recall turning the volume up around the 1.00 O' Clock news and telling my colleague Rob "OH MY GOD THE ECHO ARENA GOT MTV"!!!! To which he replied, "Mwah!!

After i explained that this AMAZING city in which we live has managed to be so successsful to get the attention of this kind of event he realised and agreed completely. What a Coup!!!!


I love by the way using my Liverpool enthusiasm on people! :)


I cannot begin to explain the amazing effect this announcement is going to have on the city, it's simply to extravagent!!! I mean major artists are coming to the city, numerous magazine articles are going to be published! Major advertising is going to be released. Very few are going to hear of Liverpool....


LIVERPOOL.


LIVERPOOL.

So this is good then :cheers:

Good vibrations......:banana:

:dance::dance::dance::dance::dance:

This is huge. Young people seeing Liverpool in a positive light..

Thanks Wody! :) And thanks Paul D for getting I cannot begin to explain the amazing effect this announcement is going to have on the city, it's simply to extravagent!!! I mean major artists are coming to the city, numerous magazine articles are going to be published! Major advertising is going to be released. Very few are going to hear of Liverpool....



More significant will be the literally hundreds of artists descending on the city who need to be impressed enough to come back and perform in the city where, according to Pete Townshend, 'it all began'.

And impressed they shall be.

'Up the road', they will have been looking in with curiosity until now ................. in the future, it will be with concern.

Soon we will no longer feel the need to mention the 'M' word...

'Up the road', they will have been looking in with curiosity until now ................. in the future, it will be with concern.

Soon we will no longer feel the need to mention the 'M' word...

William, we should not even think the "M" word let alone utter it:ohno:


M M M M M M

:banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana:

Mmm...Marmite!

William, we should not even think the "M" word let alone utter it:ohno:


M M M M M M

:banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana:

m... bananas.. m.. bananas



monkeys!!!!

Girls Aloud to play Liverpool ECHO Arena
Nov 20 2007 by Michelle Fiddler, Liverpool Echo

CHART-TOPPING band Girls Aloud are to appear at the ECHO Arena.

Tickets for the gig next May 20 will go on sale this Friday.

The announcement marks the release of Tangled Up, the band’s new album which was released through Fascination Records this week.

The album, produced by long-standing collaborators Xenomania, sees the group, which includes local girl Nicola Roberts from Runcorn, return with new hits including Sexy! No No No… and Call The Shots.

Tangled Up is the band’s fifth album. Their previous albums were 2003’s debut Sound Of The Underground, 2004’s What Will The Neighbours Say, 2005’s Chemistry and last year’s best of, The Sound Of Girls Aloud.

Girls Aloud have also had a fantastic level of success with their singles. Sexy! No No No… was their 16th top 10 single, a run that has seen them land a place in the Guinness World Records book for the most top 10 hits in a row in the UK by a female group.

Last month the ECHO revealed that Westlife would begin their spectacular national tour at the new arena. Having spent the summer of 2007 in a recording studio, the boys will kick off their Back Home tour 2008 at the ECHO Arena on February 29.

Boyzone have also announced plans to reform and play the ECHO Arena as part of a UK tour, next June.

Paul Ashton, Arena Sales Manager, said: “It’s fantastic news that Girls Aloud will be visiting the ECHO Arena Liverpool next year. With Nicola being a local girl we are expecting the show to sell out in record time.”

ECHO essentials

TICKETS for Girls Aloud will go on sale this Friday at 9am.

To book tickets log on to www.accliverpool.com or call the Echo Arena Box Office on 0844 8000 400 .

Tickets are priced at £26 and subject to a handling/booking fee.

3,300 top shopping gurus to visit city
Nov 20 2007 by Helen Hunt, Liverpool Echo

RETAIL managers from across the UK are heading to Liverpool for one of the city’s biggest-ever conferences.

More than 3,300 people are expected for the annual conference of retail property organisation BCSC (formerly British Council of Shopping Centres) at the city’s new Convention Centre next November.

Its members include retailers, developers, landlords and local authority executives.

Chief executive of BCSC, Michael Green, said: “Liverpool is set to become a spotlight destination, not only as the European City of Culture 2008, but also as a major centre of retail, leisure and lifestyle development.

“I’m delighted we’re bringing our event to the city.”

Liverpool council leader Warren Bradley said: “It’s particularly appropriate the organisation should come to Liverpool in the same year that Grosvenor's £1bn Liverpool One opens, a development on course to propelŠthe city's own retail offering into the top five in the UK by 2010.”

The ECHO Arena and neighbouring Convention Centre is a £146m project on the city’s famous King’s Waterfront.

The Convention Centre will have 1,350 seats, a 3725 sq metre multi-purpose hall and 18 further meeting rooms.

The ECHO Arena LiverpoolŠ has 10,600 seats and will play host to major entertainment and sporting events.

ACC Liverpool’s partners are Liverpool council, Liverpool Vision, English Partnerships, the European Objective One programme and the Northwest Regional Development Agency.

The event will be held at ACC Liverpool from November 10-12, 2008.

just waiting for slayer to announce that there playing the ACC,wont hold my breath though:)

CBeebies Live
06 Jan 08Family entertainment/ArenaHave you ever wondered what it would be like if the world was upside down? Or if everything was made of paper? The answers to these questions and many more will be revealed in the fantastic new stage show, CBeebies Live! Wonderlands which is at the brand new Liverpool ECHO Arena on Sunday 6 January 2008.

Capital of Culture Opening Event
12 Jan 08Concert/ArenaLiverpool Echo Arena is hosting the launch of the Capital of Culture year on 12th January 2008. With acts like Ringo Starr headlining, this event will begin Liverpool's biggest year with a bang!

Number 1 Project Live
19 Jan 08Concert/ArenaA galaxy of stars will be coming together for this spectacular concert, celebrating the fact that Liverpool has had more number one hit singles than any other city in the world – 56 number one singles over the last 50 years!

Supercross
25-26 Jan 08Sport/ArenaFuture West are pleased to announce Rounds 2 and 3 of the 2007/2008 British International Supercross Championship will take place at Liverpool Echo Arena on Friday & Saturday the 25th & 26th of January 2008.

Westlife
29 Feb 08Concert/ArenaHaving spent the summer of 2007 in the sheltered confines of a recording studio, pop royalty Westlife are back on the road next year, and their ‘Back Home’ tour is kicking off at Echo Arena on Friday 29 February.

The X Factor Live
04 Mar 08Concert/ArenaThe X Factor 2007 is already the most exciting TV story of the year and with viewing figures of over 11 million, tickets for the live tour are even more sought after than in the previous three sell-out years. The 12 finalists from this year’s hit TV show will take to the stage in 2008 on Tuesday 4th of March at the Liverpool Echo Arena.

Liberal Democrats Spring Conference
07-09 Mar 08Conference/Convention CentreThe Liberal Democrats Spring conference will take place in 7th to 9th March 2008 and is on course to be the party's biggest ever, with 1,500 delegates expected

Your Move Live
15-16 Mar 08Exhibition/ArenaYour Move Live, Liverpool’s only property and home show, will be the first exhibition to take place at the Liverpool Echo Arena in 2008, and it is the city’s biggest and most comprehensive property and home show to date.

2008 Premier League Darts
10 Apr 08
This fantastic event will feature the best eight players in the sport battling over three months in one of the game’s most exciting tournaments.

British Pain Society Annual Scientific Meeting
15-18 Apr 08Conference/Convention CentreThe Society is pleased to invite all healthcare professionals who have an interest in pain management and pain research to attend its 2008 Annual Scientific Meeting which is being held on 15-18 April in Liverpool.

Classical Spectacular
19 Apr 08Concert/ArenaLiverpool ECHO Arena will be lit up with lights, lasers and special effects when the UK’s most popular classical music show Classical Spectacular comes to Liverpool on Saturday 19 April 2008 at 7.30pm for the very first time.

British Society for Rheumatology Annual Meeting
22-25 Apr 08Conference/Convention CentreThe British Society for Rheumatology Annual Meeting & The British Health Professionals in Rheumatology Spring Meeting is the premier Rheumatology meeting in the UK

NAHT brings annual conference to Liverpool02-04 May Conference/Convention CentreThe National Association of Head Teachers is to hold its high-profile annual conference in Liverpool for the first time.

Dunlop British Open Squash
The British Open has been staged for over 80 years and is the world’s most important, prestigious and longest established squash championships,
considered the sports’ blue riband event and the 'Wimbledon of Squash'.
09-12 May 08

Here and Now
14 May 08Concert/ArenaFollowing the success of over 15 outdoor Here and Now shows this summer, Here and Now Tour 2008 is coming to Liverpool!

The European Red Cross First Aid Convention
20 Jun 08Conference/Convention CentreFACE 08 brings together 1,500 people from over 30 countries for a three-day annual first aid convention

Taxi drivers Exhibition
08 Jul 08Exhibition/Hall 2The Liverpool Taxi Drivers Children in Care Outing Fund was founded in 1985 by a number of taxi drivers, in order to meet the entertainment needs for children in care in the Merseyside area - and in 2008 it comes to ACC Liverpool.

Boyzone
One of the UK’s best-selling bands ever, Boyzone have announced a major UK arena tour for 2008 – their first in 7 years and they will be coming to the Echo Arena Liverpool on 15 June 2008! Destined to be one of the ultimate events of next year’s live calendar, it will see all five original members - Ronan Keating, Stephen Gately, Shane Lynch, Mikey Graham and Keith Duffy* perform their first concert since Dublin’s Point Depot, January 13th, 2000.

International Lung Cancer Conference Liverpool
09-12 Jul 08Conference/Convention CentreThe Roy Castle Foundation and the University of Liverpool have organised International Lung Cancer Workshops in 1999, 2001, 2003 and 2005

The 6th International Test Commission Conference
13-16 Jul 08Conference/Convention CentreOn behalf of the International Test Commission (ITC) we are honoured to welcome you to the 6th ITC Conference in Liverpool in July 2008.

World Firefighter Games
24 Aug - 02 Sep 08Sport/ArenaThe Countdown is on to the World Firefighter Games!

International Management Summit
01-02 Oct 08Conference/Convention CentreA world class, two-day management conference will include inspirational presentations from business thinkers of international renown, international leaders and top flight CEOs

National Children and Adult Services Conference
22-24 Oct 08Conference/Convention CentreThis is the main national event for bringing together all those involved with the care of vulnerable people and children in society

The ABN Annual Scientific Meeting
22-26 Jun 09Conference/Convention CentreThe Association of British Neurologists will be hosting its annual scientific meeting at the Arena and Convention Centre in Liverpool on 22-26 June 2009.

The Vascular Society AGM 2009
17-20 Nov 09Conference/Convention CentreThe Annual Scientific Meeting of The Vascular Society attracts over 600 vascular surgeons, trainees, nurses and technologists.

good thread this one... I was thinking of doing the same for MEN/GMEX in Manchester. Don't be offended if I nick the idea Paul :)

good thread this one... I was thinking of doing the same for MEN/GMEX in Manchester. Don't be offended if I nick the idea Paul :)

I'd have thought they already had one,anyway that place sells itself now but I think ours needs a little helping hand.I just know my first gig here will be Disney on Ice.:)

I think the WWE Wrestling sold out quickly and there's a couple of performances of Dancing on Ice missed off that list.Derry Mathews is meant to be fighting there in February aswell.

3,300 top shopping gurus to visit city
Nov 20 2007 by Helen Hunt, Liverpool Echo

RETAIL managers from across the UK are heading to Liverpool for one of the city’s biggest-ever conferences.

More than 3,300 people are expected for the annual conference of retail property organisation BCSC (formerly British Council of Shopping Centres) at the city’s new Convention Centre next November.

Its members include retailers, developers, landlords and local authority executives.

Chief executive of BCSC, Michael Green, said: “Liverpool is set to become a spotlight destination, not only as the European City of Culture 2008, but also as a major centre of retail, leisure and lifestyle development.

“I’m delighted we’re bringing our event to the city.”

Liverpool council leader Warren Bradley said: “It’s particularly appropriate the organisation should come to Liverpool in the same year that Grosvenor's £1bn Liverpool One opens, a development on course to propelŠthe city's own retail offering into the top five in the UK by 2010.”

The ECHO Arena and neighbouring Convention Centre is a £146m project on the city’s famous King’s Waterfront.

The Convention Centre will have 1,350 seats, a 3725 sq metre multi-purpose hall and 18 further meeting rooms.

The ECHO Arena LiverpoolŠ has 10,600 seats and will play host to major entertainment and sporting events.

ACC Liverpool’s partners are Liverpool council, Liverpool Vision, English Partnerships, the European Objective One programme and the Northwest Regional Development Agency.

The event will be held at ACC Liverpool from November 10-12, 2008.



this is boss news

I'd have thought they already had one,anyway that place sells itself now but I think ours needs a little helping hand.I just know my first gig here will be Disney on Ice.:)

I was trying to get tickets for that in MEN and they were going for like 250 a pair on ebay... if you have any spare, or know of any going could you pm me please Paul. I just need two....

:)

I was trying to get tickets for that in MEN and they were going for like 250 a pair on ebay... if you have any spare, or know of any going could you pm me please Paul. I just need two....

:)

This old article from June suggests that we are getting DoI but it hasn't been announced yet,I'll let you know if anything changes.:)

Bookings galore for waterfront site, including a Disney on Ice spectacular
Jun 9 2007 by Caroline Innes, Liverpool Daily Post

EVEN before its official opening on January 12 2008, the ACC has already had 83 confirmed events – including hosting a Disney on Ice spectacular.

this is boss news

I think so too,it's a good chance for us to tap them up and show people what we have to offer.

Excellent news about the BCSC conference - this years was in Newcastle. It is a very big conference and will bring a lot of trade to the city - a huge number of expense account people, so restaurants will do very well. Hopefully it will open up some retailers eyes about opportunities in the city. Thanks for posting the good news Paul.

3,300 top shopping gurus to visit city
Nov 20 2007 by Helen Hunt, Liverpool Echo

RETAIL managers from across the UK are heading to Liverpool for one of the city’s biggest-ever conferences.

More than 3,300 people are expected for the annual conference of retail property organisation BCSC (formerly British Council of Shopping Centres) at the city’s new Convention Centre next November.

The event will be held at ACC Liverpool from November 10-12, 2008.

Great news Paul, this is a very big convention with attached exhibition. This years BCSC was held a couple of weeks back in the SAGE up in Gateshead.
All the big boys in retail development were there, so I would hope for some investment in the city as a result of this convention.

great thread... just looking at all these events its going to add masively to the Liverpool economy!

Cannot believe the amount of conference's this venue is picking up, Imagine what it is going to do to our hotel room occupancy rate for 08, It wasnt to bad anyway but all these events should put a couple of percentage points on it and maybe attract a few more hotels.

Also the Lib dem spring conference that is being held there will take on extra significance as I guess it will be the first conference for their new Leader, so we may gain a bit more media attenion than normal for that.

Also I read today and not sure if already posted Girls Aloud- May 30th.

... agree i think many of the hotels that are beig buit at the moment signed up on the basis of the new conference centre bringing visitor and nightstoppers to the city!

Saturday 2 February 2008
Echo Arena, Liverpool, Merseyside, United Kingdom
commission: British Boxing Board of Control
promoter: Frank Warren : Sports Network
division boxer opponent
featherweight Derry Matthews SC ? NC ? 12
bout subject to commission approval / change

middleweight Paul Smith SC Steven Bendall NC ? 10
~ vacant BBBofC English middleweight title ~
bout subject to commission approval / change

another big night then for the arena... wonde how much the tickets will be!

another big night then for the arena... wonde how much the tickets will be!

I'd like to think they wouldn't be expensive so they can build up a bit of a local fanbase,Frank Warren might have other ideas though?

another big night then for the arena... wonde how much the tickets will be!

I'd like to think they wouldn't be expensive so they can build up a bit of a local fanbase,Frank Warren might have other ideas? I can't see them being to dear though.

anything with Frank Warren behind it does not come to cheaply... but i hope your right!

Cultural Regeneration : The return of the city 1-3rd. June 2008 - ACC Liverpool

Download Brochure/details from: www.liverpool.gov.uk/ifhp2008

Yet another "spotlight" on how Liverpool is re-inventing itself.

more good news!

Brilliant. Wasnt this years in Copenhagen? Is it me or are we getting lots of things pretty soon after them? e.g. MTV awards?

I blame Daniel Agger.

Is anyone planning on going down to the Arena for the sneak preview, and have a look around the arena? I got an email about it from the '08 Ambassador scheme.

I can't believe how long its taken for us to get a permanent arena/concert venue. Out of all the rencent new developments that are going on this is one i'm most excited about. I've just come back home after a year away and the arena was one of the 'stand out' changes that i've seen so far.

yeah i have a ticket to this!

when do tickets go on sale for the mtv music awards?

when do tickets go on sale for the mtv music awards?

I have been negotiating a corporate facility at the ACC and have been told the MTV awards will probably not be open to the public -if I hear different I will post it on here.

cheers LA

My organisation has been given 200 (yes 200!) tickets for the opening event on the 12th January.

They are to be given out to local community organisations via a lottery.

Unfortunately it looks like I'm banned from getting any because I work here.

Arse.

What community organisations are they going to buggedboy? I hope this is done fairly and organisations down in Vauxhall/Breckfield/Kirkdale are going to get a chance!!

Not that I work for any of them ha!

Mossleyhillbilly - I've got four tickets to the sneak preview of the arena. looking forward to it.

What community organisations are they going to buggedboy? I hope this is done fairly and organisations down in Vauxhall/Breckfield/Kirkdale are going to get a chance!!

Not that I work for any of them ha!

No idea. We've got over 2,000 on our database s presumably it'll be done from there. Only found out about it recently.

ECHO Arena date for the Mighty Boosh
Dec 10 2007 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo

AWARD-winning cult comedy duo The Mighty Boosh are set to bring their surreal humour to the ECHO arena.

Stars Noel Fielding and Julian Barratt were today confirmed as the first comedy act to perform at the new waterfront venue next October.

The pair enjoyed sell-out success with the first live tour of their critically acclaimed TV series broadcast on BBC 3.

Now ECHO Arena bosses hope the Mighty Boosh, currently on its third series and shown on Thursday nights, will prove a hit in Liverpool.

General Manager of the ECHO arena Tim Banfield said: “We are very excited to welcome the comedy genius of Mighty Boosh to Liverpool - the first comedy event to go on sale at the ECHO Arena.”

The mix of music and comedy features friends Howard Moon (Barratt) and Vince Noir (Fielding) along with a cast including shaman Naboo, played by Fielding’s brother Michael Fielding, Bolo the Ape, played by David Brown, and a talking moon played by Noel Fielding.

Barratt and Fielding created their characters in the upstairs room of a North London pub in the late '90s.

Their Edinburgh Festival debut in 1998 won them the much coveted Perrier Award for Best Newcomer.

They have since gone on to take BBC TV by storm, picking up more awards for live shows along the way.

The title of the show apparently comes from a comment Noel heard about his brother Michael's hair by a Portuguese friend who described it as a “Mighty Boosh”.

Tickets, which are £25, go on sale on Saturday, December 15 at 10am.

To book, log on to www.liverpool.com, visit www.accliverpool.com or call the ECHO Arena Box Office on 0844 8000 400 .

either the Echo or the PR department deserve to be shot for this above ^^^ great announce a new date but dont bother telling anyone when it is.... whats the point????

It's next October yer loon.

okay but no date... i have to admit i did miss that !

Register on the ACC website you get email alerts of selling dates/events etc.

Boosh is great.

Register on the ACC website you get email alerts of selling dates/events etc.

Boosh is great.

:omg::wtf: are Boosh I :dunno: I am waiting for Dickie Valentine and Lita Rosa, just because I am:ancient:doesn`t mean I don`t appreciate good music:fiddle:

This is The Mighty Boosh

4J7cxhP4B60

Paul Smith plots homecoming

Dec 11 2007

by Nick Peet, Liverpool Echo


PAUL SMITH insists that the two small cuts he sustained around both eyes as he racked up the 22nd straight win of his professional career won’t rule him out of next year’s big homecoming.

Smith, 25, is pencilled in to feature in a show at the new ECHO Arena on February 2 – alongside WBU world champion Derry Mathews and a host of other city prospects.

Yet despite needing three stitches to one eye and six to the other following Saturday’s victory over tough Tanzanian Francis Cheka, Smith is sure he will be ready for action.

The middleweight star, who is set to challenge for the English title on the Liverpool bill, said: “The two cuts are only small so I should be okay for the February 2 show.

“It normally takes around six weeks for cuts to heal properly so I’m sure I’ll be okay.

We’ve all been talking about boxing at the new Arena since the plans were first revealed a couple of years ago so, believe me, this is one show that I desperately do not want to miss.”

Smith had American trainer and former world champion Buddy McGirt in his corner for the first time in Bolton and admits that his own performance wasn’t quite what the pair had hoped for.

But he is confident that switching to the Vero Beach gym in Florida is the key to going on to world honours.

“Training in Buddy’s gym has already brought me on so much,” Smith added.

“I’ve got so much more to my bow now that it was a bit frustrating for us that things didn’t come together too much on Saturday. But I got the win and that’s the bottom line.

“There is so much more to come from me, and hopefully in February Liverpool’s fight fans will get to see that for

http://icliverpool.icnetwork.co.uk/0200sport/0610boxing/tm_headline=paul-smith-plots-homecoming%26method=full%26objectid=20234639%26siteid=50061-name_page.html

I'm getting a ticket for this!

Rihanna

05 Mar 08
Concert: Arena

Ticket Prices: £28.50

Following the amazing success of the stunning Number 1 single Umbrella (feat. Jay-Z), the success of her recent no.1 album Good Girl Gone Bad & recent single Shut Up & Drive, Rihanna has announced that she will be playing the Echo Arena Liverpool on WEDNESDAY 5 MARCH 2008.

Less than two years ago the Bajan beauty burst onto the music scene when 'Pon De Replay' stormed the British charts reaching #2, then less than 12 months later Rihanna was at #2 again with the pop classic 'S.O.S.'. She then followed with the stunning ballad 'Unfaithful' which once again frustratingly peaked at #2 but now that has all changed…

The infectious 'Umbrella' surpassed all of her previous achievements and took the country by storm giving Rihanna her first UK #1. 'Umbrella' was released digitally only on the 14th May and became the fastest selling download of the year as it went on to become only the third single ever to reach the top of the charts on downloads alone. It also won her Monster Single of the Year at the 2007 MTV Video Music Awards & Video of the Year. For three years running she has delivered the anthem of the summer and with no.1 album 'Good Girl Gone Bad', 2007 has certainly been Rihanna’s year.

Backstreet Boys

07 May 08
Concert: Arena

Ticket Prices: £30.00 / £25.00

Shayne Ward

27 May 08
Concert: Arena

Ticket Prices: £26.50

Following the amazing success of his latest album Breathless – it shipped platinum in its first week and debuted straight at Number 2 – pop superstar Shayne Ward will be appearing at the Echo Arena Liverpool on 27 May 2008 – the final date of his UK tour.

'No U Hang Up/If That's OK With You' the Double A-Side, which was the first single taken from his new album, debuted at Number 2 in the UK Charts and has now sold over 130,000 copies and spent a month in the top 5. Follow up single Breathless was the highest new entry in its week of release, charting in the top ten at Number 6.

Shayne Ward's impressive debut album 'Shayne Ward' sold over 2 million copies and produced 13 number one hits world-wide, it hit the top spot in the UK on the week of release achieving platinum selling status in just 7 days.

Lots of solid names coming through now by the looks of it. Again, little of interest to me but the more the merrier.

I agree bugged, it's great to see the list of events really filling up now. As you say these new names are of limited appeal to me, but they are very popular artists, so no doubt the tickets will be snapped up. One slight disappointment though. Cliff Richard (again popular, if not my cup of tea), is doing an arena tour next year, but isn't coming here. It's not like it's a small tour either (like London, Birmingham, Manchester). Other cities like Glasgow, Newscastle and Belfast are on the schedule too, but Liverpool isn't. It's a shame because he clearly has his fans, and I know for one my parents would definately have gone had there been a show here, but they would never dream of travelling to Manchester. Never mind though, we're doing very well despite being missed off a couple of tours.

Just been looking at the some the tour dates for the backdoor boys (i mean street) it seems they are only doing a few UK dates and Manchester is not one of them...
Nice to see us winning the vote on this one ... tho i am sure dates can be added in the future....
Pretty sure not many people will be as excited as I am about this, but thought I'd post it anyway, just in case.

Liverpool Echo Arena - Wednesday 7th May

Birmingham NIA - Thursday 8th May

Glasgow SECC - Sunday 11th May

London O2 - Wednesday 14th May

^^^^ just to point out its not me that excited about them... i copied that off another website - DOH!

Is the Liverpool arena not competing more directly with the Hallam Arena in Sheffield more directly than the MEN give the comparison in size?

There has always been concerts that used to go to Hallam and not the MEN, today some will go to Liverpool instead of Hallam.

Sure, there may be some events that bands will chose Liverpool over MEN, but chances are HAllam would have got that business previously.

oh, and Celin Dion is playing the MEN all of the week of the Back street boys UK tour.

Good tha Liverpool got them and not Sheffield for the NW - good for the two arenas to be so close, giving the locals better local choice.

Is the Liverpool arena not competing more directly with the Hallam Arena in Sheffield more directly than the MEN give the comparison in size?

I'v always felt that it is fairer to compare our new arena with the Hallam Arena rather than the MEN. They are more comparable in size, and due to geographical location will both find at certain times they will be passed over in favour of the MEN. However this by definition means they are both competing with the MEN, so although the Hallam Arena may be a fairer comparison, I don't think it completely negates the fact that our arena will be competing with the MEN.

^^^^ just to point out its not me that excited about them... i copied that off another website - DOH!

Yeah right. We believe you ;). Your secrets out now Busta. :lol:

Just seen that the Might Boosh are booked to play there in October Next year. Last year I went to see them at the Royal Court, and they were great. It's good to see them getting bigger venues and good to see that Liverpool is still on their tour list. Also nice that ACC seem to be attracting a wide variety of acts. I just wish these friggin 'tour DVD's' would be filmed in somewhere other than the Brixton Academy for a change. Based on the show I went to see at Liverpool and the recorded DVD, our show was much better!

Yes and they've booked two nights, something i said could happen in relation to the arena being too small. simply book another night if the first sells out so quick.

Yes and they've booked two nights, something i said could happen in relation to the arena being too small. simply book another night if the first sells out so quick.

Sounds like they're selling fast too. Hope we start to attract more of these large scale comedy acts to the city.

Although The Mighty Boosh isn't my cup of tea, a good thing about them announcing a second date in Liverpool is that it sets a healthy precedent. Despite them performing three nights in Manchester (2 at the Apollo, 1 at the MEN), not only was there enough demand for a date in Liverpool as well, but such a great demand, that a second date had to be added. Hopefully this will show other promoters that you don't have to pick between Liverpool and Manchester. You can have at least one show in each city, with no problems at all.

My tickets for the opening event at teh arena have arrived! Can't wait to wander about taking snaps.

^^

Sounds good BB. You'll probably be the first one on SSC to get inside the arena, so hopefully you'll post all your snaps on here so we can all have a good look. :) There isn't an event booked in yet that I want to go and see so it might be a while before I get to see it first hand.

what is the first event bb?

It's an event where they just let people wander about the place to see what it's like basically. There's also going to be a presentation by the culture co. on the 2008 programme.

Just seen that the Might Boosh are booked to play there in October Next year.

I make an appearance as "electro-boy" in Episode 6, first series, (I think).

just thought id say that my band Major Major will be playing at the arena on the 4th January as part of the 08 ambassadors event :)

A couple more exhibitions/concerts have been added to the line-up listed at www.accliverpool.com -

Confetti Show 2008 -

Now in its 6th year, the North West Confetti Show 2008 has grown from strength to strength and in 2008 it is taking place at the Echo Arena, Liverpool, the first exhibition to take place at the Echo Arena.

North West Confetti Show 2008 will offer North West brides-to-be something utterly unique; the experience of seeing the very best in bridal fashion, grooms formal wear, maids and pageboys outfits, mother of the bride, occasional wear and accessories plus all the exclusive services that a wedding party will need for the big day, without having to schedule a single appointment or travel to more than one location.

Full Information - http://www.accliverpool.com/whatson/confetti.asp

World Class Tribute Series -

Arguably the three most defining 70s West Coast Soft Rock bands are expertly recreated, delivering three solid hours of masterpieces like Hotel California, Go Your Own Way and Haitian Divorce.

All three bands are currently celebrating ten years on the road, having each formed during 1997, and together they've performed literally thousands of concerts, honing their skills further each year to the point where numerous classic hits are executed with consummate professionalism.

Rumours of Fleetwood Mac are Liverpool based, although they play all around the globe. They’ll be reliving, amongst others, many of the 70s Rumours standards like Dreams and You Make Loving Fun (tracks from one of the biggest selling albums of all time).

Full Information - http://www.accliverpool.com/whatson/worldclasstribute.asp

~~~~~~~

Those responsible for signing up exhibitions/concerts to the ACC are certainly casting their net wide, and are ensuring the facility offers a diverse range of events, which is to be welcomed :)

A couple more exhibitions/concerts have been added to the line-up listed at www.accliverpool.com -

Confetti Show 2008 -

Now in its 6th year, the North West Confetti Show 2008 has grown from strength to strength and in 2008 it is taking place at the Echo Arena, Liverpool, the first exhibition to take place at the Echo Arena.


I'm going there, wearing a very pretty dress.

^^Actually, no I'm fucking not. Jesus Christ! What the fuck am I saying?

^^Actually, no I'm fucking not. Jesus Christ! What the fuck am I saying?
Ooh, there's a little less competition then!

^^Actually, no I'm fucking not. Jesus Christ! What the fuck am I saying?

I have often wonder`d that myself, but I bet you would look cute in a little black number :lol:

Another new addition -

Voice 08

Voice08 is the annual national conference for social enterprise run by the Social Enterprise Coalition. Social enterprises are businesses that trade with a social purpose and have been described by Gordon Brown as "the new frontier of British business".

Aimed at both seasoned social entrepreneurs and those new to social enterprise Voice08 will showcase social enterprises’ ability to transform communities, meet environmental problems with innovative solutions, and challenge the conventional rules of business on local, national, and global scales.

More info - http://www.accliverpool.com/whatson/voice08.asp

again the conference centre success at getting events is highlighted, time to start filling some more slots in the arena i think !!!

It's about time they added some big names to the arena now,whatever happened to the winter pops which was promised for erm next week apparently,they should have well more events on by now.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/merseyside/6635563.stm

agree Paul, Winter pops has died on its arse!

I think the arena's already under performing because let's face it,it's now officially open and there's not a great deal on besides the usual boy/girl band fodder.

I think the arena's already under performing because let's face it,it's now officially open and there's not a great deal on besides the usual boy/girl band fodder.

Having a vague inkling of how these things work Paul, I think that assessment's a little bit pessimistic.

Tours for the sort of 10K mass-market act this arena will cater for, are often planned in advance of 18 months beforehand and often follow precidents, and 18 months ago all we had was the aim of having an arena up and running on time.

It's not surprising that this most pragmatic arm of entertainment industry operators are the most cautious and among the most conservative when it
comes to breaking new ground with new untried untested venues and markets.

I really think as it is, the place has done pretty well, but of course we'll know more whether that has been the case in the second year.

Having a vague inkling of how these things work Paul, I think that assessment's a little bit pessimistic.

Tours for the sort of 10K mass-market act this arena will cater for, are often planned in advance of 18 months beforehand and often follow precidents, and 18 months ago all we had was the aim of having an arena up and running on time.

It's not surprising that this most pragmatic arm of entertainment industry operators are the most cautious and among the most conservative when it
comes to breaking new ground with new untried untested venues and markets.

I really think as it is, the place has done pretty well, but of course we'll know more whether that has been the case in the second year.



i disagree with you there VT, only the biggest btours would be planned that far in advance many are planned in the autumn of year 1, to happen in spring summer of year 2.....

The fact is that when i was down at the arena the whos on board was a it embaressing to say the least, one act booked for the whole of FEB as far as i can remember and that was a shite one!

Maybe people are waiting to see how its gets on before they are ready to commit but the line up thats there now is hardly inspiring is it?

As some kind of marker as to how well (or not) the arena is doing, these are the events lined up for similar sized arenas (Metro Radio and Hallam FM arenas), and the natural competition (the MEN). Some arenas also use their arena floor as an exhibition space, but the ACC has a separate exhibition space, so I haven't counted exhibition events, as they cloud the issue -

Echo Arena - Liverpool -

2008 events (so far) - 21

(Ambassador Event / Capital of Culture Opening / Number One Project Live /Supercross / Westlife / The X Factor Live / Rihanna / Premier League Darts / WWE Wrestling / Classical Spectacular / World Class Tribute Series / Dancing On Ice / Backstreet Boys / Dunlop British Open Squash / Here & Now / Shayne Ward / Girls Aloud / Boyzone / World Firefighter Games / The Mighty Boosh / MTV Europe Music Awards)

Metro Radio Arena - Newcastle -

2008 events (so far) - 24

(Northern Rock Extraordinary General Meeting / Ultimate Fighting Champion / Strictly Come Dancing Live / The UK Wedding Show / Disney’s High School Musical – The Ice Tour / The X Factor Live / Westlife / Clubland Live! Arena Tour / Dancing On Ice / WWE Smackdown / Viva La Diva / Premier League Darts / Australian Pink Floyd / Shayne Ward / Here & Now / The Osmonds / Girls Aloud / Thomas & Friends / Boyzone / Northern League Masters Football / Kylie Minogue / Lee Evans / The Mighty Boosh / Cliff Richard)

Hallam FM Arena - Sheffield -

2008 events (so far) - 17

(Disney’s High school Musical – The Ice Tour / Linkin Park / Strictly Come Dancing Live / Art on Ice / The X Factor Live / Premier League Darts / Dancing On Ice / Test Series Netball / WWE Smackdown / Australian Pink Floyd / Viva La Diva / Shayne Ward / Girls Aloud / The Osmonds / Boyzone / Lee Evans / Disney on Ice – Finding Nemo)

MEN Arena - Manchester -

2008 events (so far) - 32

(Disney’s High school Musical – The Ice Tour / Spice Girls / Linkin Park / Strictly Come Dancing Live / Smashing Pumpkins / Versus Cancer / Alicia Keys / The X Factor Live / Premier League Darts / Clubland Live! Arena Tour / Westlife / FINA World Swimming Championships / Celine Dion / Dancing On Ice / Here & Now / Harlem Globetrotters / Mark Knopfler / Viva La Diva / Shayne Ward / Girls Aloud / The Osmonds / Avril Lavigne / Boyzone / Neil Diamond / The Police / Santana / Dolly Parton / Kylie Minogue / Masters Football / Lee Evans/ Cliff Richard / The Mighty Boosh)

As you can see, for a new venue we aren't doing badly at all when compared to the line-up at establsihed arenas of a similar size to ours. We are a little bit behind the MEN, but in view of the fact that it's a larger venue that will always attract people like Celine Dion who only performs one or two venues in each country, I think we're doing well. Indeed, when next year comes, and Liverpool is included on tours that were clearly planned before our arena opened (like Strictly Come Dancing Live for instance), and the arena establishes itself a good reputation, I see no reason why we can't give the MEN a run for it's money.

take four capital of culture related events out of there and the "world class tribute series" and its a bit thin really.... hardly punching above its weight is it? Still the analysis you have given is useful!

its got the big one mate the MTV Europe Music Awards

I can see where you're coming from with the Capital of Culture events as they are one-off's - although in any given year, any given arena will always have some one-off events, so I don't think they should necessarily not be counted.

In terms of punching above it's weight, remember that the arena has attracted the only North-West date of the WWE Wrestling tour - a bit of a scoop given the compeition along the East Lancs. Also as the pool08 rightly points out, at least for one event, never mind the MEN, we've got every other arena in Europe beat.

Also don't forget the Summer Pops. The line-up for the Summer Pops could potentially bring a good dozen extra artists to the arena. Perhaps we'll pick up artists that couldn't slot Liverpool into their already planned tours, but may want to play Liverpool as a one-off during the Summer Pops? I can see how people might be underwhelmed, particularly if there isn't yet an event line-up that they want to see (I haven't found one yet). But I'm quietly confident about the success of the arena.

I think the arena's already under performing because let's face it,it's now officially open and there's not a great deal on besides the usual boy/girl band fodder.

Jesus the paint is barely dry and you say it's under-performing.

I am far more interested in the conferences than the arena, because it is that market that I hope will generate the really valuable inward investments in the future. With thousands of decision makers spending time in the city each year, some, surely, will add Liverpool to the shortlist when considering new investments. I'm not saying the arena isn't important, but my interest is in the economic development of the city, and I'm hugely excited by the success of the conference centre.

With a conference (national or international) people turn up more or less wherever you hold it, and costs are covered. The situation for people booking the arena must be completely different - it'll take time to build, to establish itself as profitable to book, and so let's see where we are in a year before we decide if it's under-performing or not.

i do hope the summer pops are better than the winter ones!

wait until the big bands release albums this year and the next thats when we'll hopefully see bands like coldplay, u2, oasis, radiohead, that is the calibre of bands i expect us to get here, when they go on tour they will come!

Jesus the paint is barely dry and you say it's under-performing.

I am far more interested in the conferences than the arena, because it is that market that I hope will generate the really valuable inward investments in the future. With thousands of decision makers spending time in the city each year, some, surely, will add Liverpool to the shortlist when considering new investments. I'm not saying the arena isn't important, but my interest is in the economic development of the city, and I'm hugely excited by the success of the conference centre.

With a conference (national or international) people turn up more or less wherever you hold it, and costs are covered. The situation for people booking the arena must be completely different - it'll take time to build, to establish itself as profitable to book, and so let's see where we are in a year before we decide if it's under-performing or not.


Agreed.

I can't understand the negativity. The bands generally won't commit on a hunch. Those that have are being brave and maybe have close ties for whatever reason.

Fact is, the arena is still weeks away from being fully finished, not days. The MTV gig is HUGE though ................. a big gamble for MTV (arena not built) and a huge, almost embarrassing slap in the face to the MEN. They will still be seething.

With the movers and shakers of MTV in town, bands and organisers will get first hand knowledge of the city and arena, and they must, and will, be sent away truly impressed.:)

One thing is for certain: next year the MEN will not be boasting of being the most used arena in the world. My guess is it may well fall out of the top 5 due to the Echo and the 02 arenas. And that is not meant to denigrate the phenominal success of the MEN in any way.

Some arenas also use their arena floor as an exhibition space, but the ACC has a separate exhibition space, so I haven't counted exhibition events, as they cloud the issue - .

Well you should ChrisB, many of the booked conventions will have exhibitions that will spill into the Arena floor.
Is is not a tadd early to bemoan the lack of Arena events ?:ohno: it dosen`t open till tomorrow:lol: a few quiet months is probably required to get the place 100% completed, it will be busy come summer time. :banana:

Well you should ChrisB, many of the booked conventions will have exhibitions that will spill into the Arena floor.

Fair point Woody. The problem I found was that if I counted exhibition events using the arena floor at other venues, how do I account for exhibition events at ACC Liverpool that will use the exhibition space only instead of the arena floor, by virtue of our facility having a proper exhibition space?

Anyway, just the the sake of completeness, I'll do another list -

Current totals -
Echo Arena - 21
Metro Radio Arena - 24
Hallam FM Arena - 17
MEN Arena - 32

Including exhibition events using the arena floor -

Echo Arena - 25
(Confetti Show / Voice 08 / Property & Home Show / NUREC)

Metro Radio Arena - 26
(Pins & Needles 2008 / Homemaker: The Exhibition 2008)

Hallam FM Arena - 18
(Skills Yorkshire & Humber)

MEN Arena - 32
(No change, although to be fair most exhibitions probably head to GMEX / Manchester Central instead).

Including the part exhibition / part arena events only further proves how successful the new arena has already been in attracting events to the city before it even opened.

I want to thank Chris B for his recent posts re number of events at ACC. Great info, great analysis, great posts. More reasons to be optimistic. Just another reason why I'm an avid reader of SCC

ps Don't worry, Iam not trying to start a new trend of congratulating everybody in sight every time they put fingers to keyboard

Just a heads up for anyone who might have tickets to The Number One Project concert tomorrow evening. The start time has been brought forward 30 minutes, and the concert now begins at 7:30pm.

Info - http://www.accliverpool.com/whatson/projectlive.asp

Fair point Woody. The problem I found was that if I counted exhibition events using the arena floor at other venues, how do I account for exhibition events at ACC Liverpool that will use the exhibition space only instead of the arena floor, by virtue of our facility having a proper exhibition space?

Anyway, just the the sake of completeness, I'll do another list -

Current totals -
Echo Arena - 21
Metro Radio Arena - 24
Hallam FM Arena - 17
MEN Arena - 32

Including exhibition events using the arena floor -



Echo Arena - 25
(Confetti Show / Voice 08 / Property & Home Show / NUREC)

Metro Radio Arena - 26
(Pins & Needles 2008 / Homemaker: The Exhibition 2008)

Hallam FM Arena - 18
(Skills Yorkshire & Humber)

MEN Arena - 32
(No change, although to be fair most exhibitions probably head to GMEX / Manchester Central instead).

Including the part exhibition / part arena events only further proves how successful the new arena has already been in attracting events to the city before it even opened.

All the more impressive when you consider that the Metro arena Newcastle is the only one in the north east, the Sheffield Hallam is the only one in Yorkshire also serving Leeds and the MEN has served the whole of the north west for years.

ECHO Arena will host annual WI conference
Jan 19 2008 by Michelle Fiddler, Liverpool Echo

AROUND 6,000 women are set to descend on Liverpool this year – when the WI holds its annual one-day conference.

The Women’s Institute, fondly dubbed the “jam and Jerusalem brigade”, is staging the event at the ECHO Arena.

The waterfront venue is expected to welcome around 6,000 WI representatives on Wednesday, June 4.

The organisation boasts more than 200,000 members nationwide.

It previously held its AGM at traditionally “political” venues such as Brighton, Blackpool and London.

This year the guest speakers include author and presenter Sandi Toksvig, neurologist and author Baroness Susan Greenfield and physicist Professor Avril MacDonald.

There will also be a number of resolutions under discussion.

This year’s topics have still to be confirmed but in recent years members debated issues such as hospital and post office closures, violence against women, equal pay for women and the funding of research for HIV.

There will also be an exhibition area for members to visit.

A National Federation of Women’s Institutes (NFWI) spokesman said: “This is the first time we have been to Liverpool.

“Around 6,000 members will descend on the ECHO arena.

“Normally because of the venue size we have to limit the number of representatives.

“But the arena is a larger venue so one of the things we are considering is involving other members as observers.

“It is essentially a business meeting. We will have speakers and there will be a number of resolutions. Our members tend to look at controversial subjects.

“They debate on them and then vote on them and if it becomes a mandate they then campaign on it.

“All the members will descend on the Arena by coach. We don’t encourage our members to come by car because of environmental concerns.

“We are very excited to come to Liverpool because of the year it is.”

In 2000 Institute members famously slow handclapped and heckled the then prime minister Tony Blair.

Some women even walked out of the Wembley conference saying the speech was too long and too overtly political.

And the film Calendar Girls, starring Helen Mirren, was based on the true story of a group of Yorkshire WI members who posed nude for a calendar for leukaemia research.

^^

That's great news. Every event that is attracted here is another vote of confidence for the city. High profile events like this help develop the reputation of Liverpool as a venue for hosting conferences, concerts, and exhibitions - something we very much need to do now we finally have the facility to properly host such events. Finally we all know the value of word-of-mouth. Every person that comes to the city for a conference is another potential champion of Liverpool. It's long been said that in order to change people's perceptions of Liverpool all you have to do is get them here. This facility is doing a fantastic job of that, and I look forward to more events being announced soon.

plus they'll do a fair bit of shopping.

^^

Is that a stereotype or is that based on known facts? (genuinely curious, not just picking holes). In any event, the first phase of Liverpool 1 will have opened just 6 days earlier, so the timing couldn't be much better.

plus they'll do a fair bit of shopping.

Arf.

We should organise a home made cake festival and a crochet gala off the back of that.

Very good news though really, proper big stuff, visitors, money and kudos coming in. Why did it take so long to build something?

^^

Is that a stereotype or is that based on known facts? (genuinely curious, not just picking holes). In any event, the first phase of Liverpool 1 will have opened just 6 days earlier, so the timing couldn't be much better.


A bit of both really! Seriously though, a relative of mine who has sadly passed away now used to go to this event.

More so than say, a trade union, the WI was all about coming together as human beings, meeting socially etc. Not just hard nosed agenda items then going home.

This event will mean more to attendees than simply turning up and voting. They really make a bash of it.

Expect tours etc to be very busy.

Great news about the WI.

Went to the No.1 project last night. Decent show, but not a 'spectacular' as I suppose they were raising funds for charity.

Great in parts, a bit lacking in others. Arena seemed great on a second visit for a show, although disappointingly, a bit 'echoey' (sp?).

THREE kings of Irish comedy are set to take the ECHO Arena by storm to celebrate Liverpool’s year as Capital of Culture.

Ardal O’Hanlon, Dylan Moran and Tommy Tiernan will appear live on stage together for the first time as part of Liverpool Comedy Festival.

The Three Fellas will be at the waterfront venue on June 14.

The one-off event is billed as a celebration of Liverpool’s culture title, a recognition of the strong links between Liverpool and Ireland and a highlight of the annual comedy festival.

All three comedians have played Liverpool before, but never on the same bill.

They are being brought to the city by top comedy promoter, Liverpool-born Mick Perrin.

He said: “For any son of Liverpool, born on the docks with Irish blood in their veins, coming back is always good.

“But being able to invite along the cream of Irish comedy to help celebrate the cultural comedy identity these two great communities have given the world is an absolute joy, and one that’s been in my heart for many a year.

“The Three Fellas at the ECHO Arena is a stand-up comedy celebration of Liverpool’s great comedy heritage.”

Ardal O’Hanlon is best known as Father Dougal in Channel 4’s iconic series Father Ted, as well as Thermoman in My Hero and Eamon in Big Bad World.

The 42-year-old, who describes his style as slyly subversive yet very silly, spent 2007 on sell-out tours of the UK, Australia, New Zealand, the US, Canada, Ireland and the Far East.

Dylan Moran, known as “the Oscar Wilde of comedy”, is the star and creator of award winning Channel 4 sitcom Black Books.

His big screen appearances include Run Fat Boy Run and Shaun Of The Dead.

Tommy Tiernan is regarded as one of the top 10 stand-ups in the English-speaking world, and has sold out venues across the UK and Ireland.

ECHO Arena sales manager Paul Ashton said:“A brilliant night’s entertainment is guaranteed for everybody.”

* ECHO essentials

Tickets for The Three Fellas go on sale on Friday January 25

For more details visit www.liverpool.com or call the ECHO Arena box office on 0844 8000 400 .

catherinejones@liverpoolecho.co.uk

Great news!

It's not listed on www.accliverpool.com yet, but I noticed an advert in the Liverpool.com magazine that comes through the door, for the 2008 North West Home & Garden Show at the Arena on 17/18 May.

Helpful website - www.homesandgardensnorthwest.co.uk

How about getting a boating show up here!!!! If London can have one, the Liverpool Echo arena and surrounding dock space is crying out for this type of event!! :)

How about getting a boating show up here!!!! If London can have one, the Liverpool Echo arena and surrounding dock space is crying out for this type of event!! :)

Probably because the council can't be arsed trying for it, and Londoners won't travel this far cos the tube doesn't stop here.

Other than that, it would be a brilliant success for sure!

^^

Fair point, but because a lot of people won't travel down to London, some exhibtions are doing regional shows, which would be a good stepping stone to hopefully one day snaring a big show from London.

Interpreter also raises a very good point. The river, and surrounding docks would be perfect for boats that are simply too large for a typical exhibition hall/arena setting.

How about getting a boating show up here!!!! If London can have one, the Liverpool Echo arena and surrounding dock space is crying out for this type of event!! :)

There was a whisper last year that the organisers of the London & Southamton Boat Shows were planning a similar event in Liverpool for 08.
I have not heard if this is still on the cards.

^^

Not this year sadly -

Liverpool Boat Show update

By IBI Magazine

National Boat Shows (NBS), a subsidiary of the British Marine Federation (BMF), has announced that plans for a new Liverpool Boat Show in 2008 have been put on hold following the unavailability of a suitable site. NBS, which also organises both the London and Southampton shows, says that it will continue to research the Liverpool project.

"We are still very interested in bringing a world-class boat show to Liverpool. However, to make it the best-possible show we are unfortunately unable to launch next year," says James Gower, NBS director of marketing.

"We are currently researching various location options for the future," he adds. "We've been delighted with the warm response we've received from the City and official bodies, and look forward to working with them again soon. By allowing more time we hope to create a fantastic show for Liverpool and the wider region."

This year's Southampton International Boat Show will run from September 14-23, followed by the London International Boat Show at the ExCel Exhibition Centre in January 2008.

(29 March 2007)

http://www.ybw.com/ibinews/newsdesk/20070229131433ibinews.html

^^

Not this year sadly -

A bit too soon probably with all the work going on. Roll on next year. Generally, although some events are dificult to shift out of London / SE, when they have moved, they have been great successes

Mersey Masters

28 Jun 08

Comedy: Arena

Ticket Prices: £14.00 for adults & £10.00 for children (under16)

Masters Football is SAVING THE SUMMER!

Forget about the European Championships, the real action is right here at the Echo Arena Liverpool on Saturday 28 June, when the greatest legends of the game will go head-to-head once more in pursuit of the most coveted prize in indoor football.

The Masters Cup 2008 comes to Liverpool for the first time this June with a format that sees two teams making their Masters Football debuts, drafted in to spice up the action and ensure things go right to the wire.

4 teams will go head-to-head, with the winners battling it out for a place in the Masters Grand Final and the chance to make sporting history.

Come and see teams packed full of stars, including Ian Rush, Jan Molby, John Aldridge, Nigel Spackman, Phill Babb, Peter Beagrie, Duncan Ferguson, Neil Pointon, Kevin Langley and Adrian Heath in what promises to be the showpiece event of the year.

Ian Rush commented: "All the lads are made up to be playing football on Merseyside once again and especially in such a fantastic arena. To have home support is a real boost and with four local derbies, I’ll make sure not to forget my shin pads! Being back in Liverpool is so important and all the players I’ve spoken to are really up for putting on a good show for the fans".

Will Rogers at Masters Football said: "We are delighted to bring Masters Football to Liverpool for the first time. Since the Masters Cup began we have been eager to give fans the event they deserve and with both Merseyside teams attracting great support, this is already shaping up to be the highlight of the 2008 series".

COME AND GET BEHIND YOUR TEAM

YOUR LEGENDS NEED YOU!

http://www.accliverpool.com/whatson/merseymasters.asp

Arena in bid to clinch race for Sports Personality of the Year awards

Jan 29 2008 by David Bartlett, Liverpool Daily Post

LIVERPOOL is bidding to host the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Awards.

Officials at the Echo Arena, Liverpool, are in discussions with the BBC about hosting the event in December.

If successful, it would be the latest in a number of prestigious events to be held at the arena during Capital of Culture year.

Liverpool faces tough competi-tion from other cities across the country, and is likely to find out in about a month’s time whether its bid has been successful.

It is hoped that being European Capital of Culture could swing the BBC event in Liverpool’s favour.

In November the arena will host the MTV Europe Music Awards, and it was also the venue for the opening weekend of the Capital of Culture celebrations.

Attracting the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Awards would be seen as a major coup for the city as it is one of the key dates in the sporting calendar.

Last year the award was won by boxer Joe Calzaghe, ahead of Formula One star Lewis Hamilton and fellow boxer Ricky Hatton.

In 2006 St Helens Rugby League team won team of the year while their manager Daniel Anderson was named coach of the year.

Liverpool’s world champion gymnast Beth Tweddle finished in an excellent third overall in the competition in 2006. Liverpool council leader Warren Bradley said: “Bidding for this prestigious event indicates how far Liverpool has come and shows the seriousness of all part-ners to succeed; that said it is at the early stages and we are fully supportive of the Arena bid to bring the event to Liverpool.”

Chief executive of the Chamber of Commerce Jack Stopforth said capturing high-profile events were crucial to future success of investment and retail in the city.

“Coming on the back of the MTV awards would be an amazing opportunity to reinforce Liver-pool’s credentials as a top quality location for conferences and conventions.”

A spokesman for the city’s official tourism body, The Mersey Partnership, added: “We’re already seeing the impact major events at ACC Liverpool are having on the rest of our visitor economy.

“The BBC Sports Personality of the Year Awards is another huge event with the potential to raise the profile of both our superb new facilities and the wider city region.

“It would be another enormously exciting event and, with sport being such a passion in the culture of the region, what better way to welcome the UK’s greatest sports men and women to Liverpool than in our year as European Capital of Culture.”

Tim Banfield, general manager of the Echo Arena, said: “We confirm we are bidding to host the prestigious BBC Sports Personality of the Year Awards, but no decision has been made yet. ”

Deputy Labour lead-er Paul Brant said: “We will do anything we can to make sure it happens.”

A spokesman for the BBC said it was hoped the venue would be announced in about a month.

http://www.liverpooldailypost.co.uk/liverpool-news/regional-news/2008/01/29/arena-in-bid-to-clinch-race-for-sports-personality-of-the-year-awards-64375-20405784/



It doesn't mention which other cities are bidding, but let's hope the momentum that's building up because of Capital of Culture swings it for us.

Those helpful chaps at Birmingham SSC have kindly informed me that it is likely we'll get a June decision regarding a venue for the Sports Personality of the Year. Hopefully a nice mid summer filip.

^^

Just to add to what I said earlier, we found out in February 2006 that we were holding it for the first time that same year. Then June 2007 the following year so who knows when we'll find out this year? I think I remember someone saying that the BBC wanted to move it around the country so it seems unlikely Birmingham will get it for a 3rd year in a row. I'd say it has a good chance of going to Liverpool.

IIRC, shortly before Christmas, Phil Redmond was asked if the arena could be used for the personality of the year awards when he appeared as a guest of Roger Phillips on Radio Merseyside. Redmond replied that they had already approached the BBC about holding the event but that the BBC was indicating that a 'contribution towards costs' was required from the culture company. Apparently, Birmingham had made that very same 'contribution towards costs' so that they could wrest the awards ceremony from London.

A paragraph in this (http://arts.guardian.co.uk/liverpool2008/story/0,,2223306,00.html)Observer article penned by Redmond takes the BBC to task for concentrating it's attention and resources on the forthcoming London Olympics but throwing just a few crumbs to Liverpool.

While enjoying my engagement with the BBC on the Free Thinking festival, which comes out of the old Reithian tradition, elsewhere the Corporation is the cause of much frustration, as I continue discussions as to why our £4bn primary public-service broadcaster has not yet fully engaged with 2008, other than to squeeze a few things into its schedules. Yet it has teams of people already working on a 14-day sporting event in 2012.

I hope the BBC does the right thing and allows Liverpool to host the awards but really, I think the BBC should have decided long ago that they were going to be held in Liverpool.

^^

Without wishing to get too far off-topic, in terms of any potential BBC coverage, the event I have the biggest concern about is Macca's concert at Anfield in June. It would be the mother of all own-goals if this didn't receive live, uninterupted coverage on BBC1/2.

As for the Sports Personality Awards, it would be nice to have this event, as although there are still smaller events occuring afterwards, so far it feels a bit like a line is drawn under Capital of Culture after the MTV Awards in November. It would be good to continue the high-profile events right until we hand the title over.

A paragraph in this (http://arts.guardian.co.uk/liverpool2008/story/0,,2223306,00.html)Observer article penned by Redmond takes the BBC to task for concentrating it's attention and resources on the forthcoming London Olympics but throwing just a few crumbs to Liverpool.


Agree with that. It is noticeable that papers such as The Times carry several daily reviews of London theatres, with none I have seen so far from Liverpool.

^^

Without wishing to get too far off-topic, in terms of any potential BBC coverage, the event I have the biggest concern about is Macca's concert at Anfield in June. It would be the mother of all own-goals if this didn't receive live, uninterupted coverage on BBC1/2.

As for the Sports Personality Awards, it would be nice to have this event, as although there are still smaller events occuring afterwards, so far it feels a bit like a line is drawn under Capital of Culture after the MTV Awards in November. It would be good to continue the high-profile events right until we hand the title over.

Good points. Lets hope we get both here and live on TV.

Looks like the Convention Centre has bagged itself another conference -

The Royal College of Ophthalmologists 20th Anniversary Annual Congress

20-22 May 08

Conference: Convention Centre

This Congress celebrates the 20th Anniversary of the College, coinciding with the Capital of Culture celebrations of the host city. The scientific programme is packed with sessions that will appeal to everyone. There are no special sessions for allied professions, as all sessions are integrated and aimed at all abilities and all ophthalmic and allied professions. We have three internationally renowned speakers delivering our prestigious named lectures and there are small courses on ocular imaging and microsurgery. This promises to be a fabulous meeting which should be enjoyed by all. We do look forward to seeing you in Liverpool.

http://www.accliverpool.com/whatson/TheRoyalCollegeofOphthalmologists.asp

Agree with that. It is noticeable that papers such as The Times carry several daily reviews of London theatres, with none I have seen so far from Liverpool.

Any review of something positive and liverpool based is a rare sight - Giles Coren, the restaurant critic in the Times gets me - has the loser ever left the M25? :ohno:
He did write once that the people in the "provinces" don't have the sophisticated taste and expectations of Londoners, so if he wasn't going to challenge his pallette why should he bother.... Arghhh - and they pay the fella for broadcasting this to the world! :bash:

^^

Michael Winner :bash: once said that culture doesn't exist north of Oxford Street. He writes for the Sunday Times but he is constantly ridiculed by its readers for being an ugly / fat / arrogant (in no particular order) gobshite. I think generally that The Times is slowly coming around to Liverpool and a positive 2008 could make a huge impact in future reporting on the region.

The funny thing about it is that these people are freaks and they think they're looking down at us.:lol:

^^

The 'serious' papers often contain reviews of art/theatre in Liverpool. I have read seven reviews this week.

Unfortunately they only cover mainstream theatre/art - you don't often see a review of a production at the Unity, and this is often where the more interesting productions occur.

From the Echo -


Sports stars head to ECHO spectacular

Feb 4 2008 by Mary Murtagh, Liverpool Echo
The stage is set for the Echo Sports personality of the year at Echo Arena

TROPHIES are being polished and tablecloths ironed as the ECHO Arena prepares to host the ECHO Merseyside Sports Personality of the Year Awards tonight.

Some of the greatest names in Merseyside football will come together to celebrate success stories from all the city’s sports.

Legends including Liverpool’s Ian Rush, Kenny Dalglish, Bruce Grobbelaar, and Ron Yeats plus Everton greats Andy Gray, Joe Royle, Duncan McKenzie and Kevin Sheedy are among a host of stars attending.

Others stars will include Britain’s best 800m runner Michael Rimmer, 2006 sports personality winner Beth Tweddle, top city boxer Derry Mathews and St Helens Man of Steel James Roby.

It is the night when we will be honouring the region’s most outstanding sportsman or woman from 2007.

Hosted by TV sports presenter Jeff Stelling, the night will see a host of other awards presented, including awards in honour of Dixie Dean and Bill Shankly.

Don’t miss tomorrow’s ECHO for full reports and pictures of all the winners at our star-studded spectacular.

http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/liverpool-news/local-news/2008/02/04/sports-stars-head-to-echo-spectacular-100252-20432865/

I do wish the www.accliverpool.com website was more on the ball when it came to listing upcoming events. I know not all of them will necessarily have tickets available to the general public, but I don't think that matters. If I was the organiser of an event perusing different websites to gauge an idea of where I want to hold my event, I would be more encouarged to further investigate a facility listing many events rather than a facility listing only some. If a facility only has some events I would be asking myself why. There are already a good few events that have been highlighted on here, or by the local media like the Echo article above, that really should be listed on the facilities official website.

VOICE 08 - Social Enterprise Coalition Conference, 26-27th February.


Share your vision. Shape the movement. Lend your voice.

Join us at THE national social enterprise event of the year - Voice08.

Aimed at both seasoned social entrepreneurs and those new to social enterprise, Voice08 will showcase the power of social enterprise to transform communities, meet environmental problems with innovative solutions, and challenge the conventional rules of business on local, national, and global scales.

Speakers at this year’s event include:

Rt Hon Hazel Blears MP, Secretary of State for Communities & Government
Arunesh Singh, Director, Scojo Foundation India
Rt Hon Francis Maude MP, Shadow Minister for the Cabinet Office & Shadow Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster
Phil Hope MP, Minister for the Third Sector, Cabinet Office
Claire Dove, CEO ,Blackburne House & Chair, Social Enterprise Coalition
Sophi Tranchell, Chief Executive, Divine chocolate
Kris Murrin, What If
Peter McGurn, CEO, Goodwin Development Trust
Lord Victor Adebowale, CEO, Turning Point
Rod Schwartz, CEO, Catalyst
Tim Campbell, Founder, Bright Ideas Trust

Representatives from social enterprises, government, and financial institutions are just a few examples of the diverse range of attendees who will be making the most of the fantastic networking opportunities and taking the chance to exhibit their organizations on this national platform.

Voice08 will be our most interactive conference to date through our online forum you’ll be able to make early contacts, map out your day, and make the most of your time in Liverpool. There’ll also be plenty of time to visit the exhibition, and opportunities to do some great business.

This year we’re also introducing Young Voice, a mini conference aimed at young people aged 14 – 30, and teachers and educators. This half day event will exhibit the amazing work of some of the UK’s best young social entrepreneurs and is will inspire and educate attendees, showing them the power of social enterprise to make genuine and lasting social change.

To book your place at Voice08 now, and for more information, please visit www.socialenterprise.org.uk

First signing for the Summer Pops - and it's a good one...


Jazz star Michael Buble signs up for Summer Pops

Feb 6 2008 Jade Wright Liverpool Echo

JAZZ singer Michael Bublé was today unveiled as the first act to sign up to this year’s Summer Pops.

Pops promoter Chas Cole has pledged to bring in a raft of big names to make the 2008 Pops at the new ECHO Arena the most successful yet.

First to sign on the dotted line was multi- platinum selling, Grammy-nominate Canadian big band singer and all-round entertainer Michael Bublé.

And it seems he can’t wait to entertain the Liverpool crowd.

He said: "I just love getting in front of people. It’s so important to be in touch with your audience. They’ve paid their money. I want them to be entertained.

"If they want to cry or laugh or dance or sing or yell, they can do whatever they want. My responsibility is just to take them away."

The 32-year-old from Vancouver first wowed British audiences with a performance on the Parkinson show.

His debut album sold more than four million copies and this year he was nominated for Best International Male Solo Artist at the Brit Awards and Best Male Pop Vocal Performance and Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album at the Grammys.

He inherited his love of music from his Italian granddad, who introduced him to the singers who went on to become Bublé’s idols: Bobby Darin, Dean Martin, Sinatra, Ray Charles, and Elvis Presley.

He added: "These guys were triple threats.

"They could sing. They could dance. They could act. They were entertainers and I believe that’s a lost art now."

Promoter Chas Cole said: "This year’s Summer Pops is going to be bigger and better than ever.

"Get ready for some world class artists to be announced over the coming weeks."

Plans are also underway for a fringe Summer Pops at clubs and venues around the city.

news@liverpoolecho.co.uk

ECHO essentials

MICHAEL Bublé plays the Summer Pops on Sunday July 20. Tickets cost £37.50 and go on sale on Friday at 9am from www.livenation.co.uk or 24hr cc hotline 0844 576 5483 (all tickets subject to a booking fee).

http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/liverpool-news/local-news/2008/02/06/jazz-star-michael-buble-signs-up-for-summer-pops-100252-20442468/

Shame about the ticket prices. I think that's a bit steep personally, but it's great that the organisers are aiming high with their signings.

A Magical Beginning for the BT Convention Centre

4 Feb 08

ACC Liverpool is to mark its opening with magic and martinis at Confex.

The UK's newest convention centre is to celebrate its recent opening with a combination of magic and martinis at this year's Confex.

ACC Liverpool, home of the BT Convention Centre, officially opened on January 12th with the launch of Liverpool's year as European Capital of Culture and is welcoming a whole host of organisations in its first months, including the Liberal Democrats, the National Association of Headteachers and the British Chambers of Commerce.

Delegates visiting stand B451 will be able to sip martinis and be entertained by our magician, as well as meeting the team behind a development which has transformed Liverpool into the conference destination of choice.

ACC Liverpool is an architecturally-stunning, £164m development on the city's famous King's Waterfront. The BT Convention Centre has 1,350 seats, a 3725 sq metre multi-purpose hall and 18 further meeting rooms offering complete flexibility. Total exhibition space is in excess of 7000 sq metres. The adjoining Liverpool Echo Arena will have 10,600 seats play host to major entertainment and sporting events.

All catering is provided by celebrity chef Paul Heathcote's company, Heathcotes. ACC Liverpool aims to be the most environmentally-friendly facility of its kind in Europe, with its own purpose-built wind farm, rainwater harvesting on the roof and a design which will produce half the CO 2 emissions of a traditional building.

Jacquie Rogers, BT Convention Centre General Manager, said: "ACC Liverpool has been several years and millions of pounds in the making and so it is wonderful that we’re now in a position to be welcoming organisations and their delegates through our doors.

"Even better is the fact that the organisations who have chosen the BT Convention Centre in its very first year are of such a high calibre – with everyone from the Royal College of Nursing to the Liberal Democrats and the National Association of Headteachers set to bring their events to the city this year.

"Liverpool really is a fantastic place, a place I’m confident people will be bowled over by when they arrive here – and that goes doubly during this very special year as it celebrates its reign as European Capital of Culture."

http://www.accliverpool.com/news/magical.asp

I wonder how much business they will attract off the back of this event? They don't seem to have had much trouble so far getting people to come here for the first time, so I'm hopeful that in the weeks and months following this event we'll see many more conferences announced for the facility.

Who's Michael Buble?

Anyway, he's playing the arena 20th July.

Who's Michael Buble?

Anyway, he's playing the arena 20th July.


http://www.michaelbuble.com :tongue2:

Here's are the dates and venues for Michael Buble's tour -

18th July - Metro Radio Arena - Newcastle
19th July - SECC - Glasgow
20th July - Liverpool Echo Arena - Liverpool
22nd July - Cardiff International Arena - Cardiff
23rd July - The 02 Arena - London

Spot something missing? :wink2:

Here's are the dates and venues for Michael Buble's tour -

18th July - Metro Radio Arena - Newcastle
19th July - SECC - Glasgow
20th July - Liverpool Echo Arena - Liverpool
22nd July - Cardiff International Arena - Cardiff
23rd July - The 02 Arena - London

Spot something missing? :wink2:


Never heard of him before, and can't say it's my cup of tea, but this list is interesting in that he currently doesn't seem to have a single date in the Midlands, and also that Manchester seems to have lost out to Liverpool, unless they add a Manchester date. As we all correctly predicted, ACC changes things.

He played Manchester a couple of months ago.

A quick use of google suggests, other than London, he's playing the arenas that were missed in November.

He played Manchester a couple of months ago.

A quick use of google suggests, other than London, he's playing the arenas that were missed in November.


A couple of months ago was last year, before ACC opened and provided competition. This summer he is playing Liverpool. Maybe he will add a Manchester date for sometime in 2008? Or maybe he won't. What is the problem? Will you not travel to Liverpool to hear live music?

Doubt it, just as I don't travel to Sheffield.

I live 3mins walk from Dane Road Metrolink station, which can have me in the MEN in less than 20mins - I am very spoilt.

The point I was making is last year he played Brum, Manc, Sheffield, Brum and London as far as I can tell.

This summer, he is playing the other arenas in the country (and London again).

The only places he is visiting this year that he didn't last year are Liverpool and Newcastle, and London isn't the only place he is re-visiting. As such I'm not sure I go along with the argument he is just playing the other arenas around the country he missed last year.

It makes sense to visit Newcastle as there are no other arenas within reasonable travelling distance for fans. But why pick the Echo Arena, in an untried city when you performed a successful concert (we have no reason to suggest it wasn't) down the road, within easy travelling distance for fans in the untried city? You may as well just re-visit the tried venue (like he is re-visiting other cities), and be done with it. But he isn't, he's coming here, instead of the tried venue. Albeit small, surely that's a coup for the Echo Arena, over the MEN?

It's nailed on that Kings Dock will win business that used to use MEN but the market is so diverse and the arena catchments areas are so large that there's scope for both to do well. The emergence of Leeds as an arena venue will tighten the squeeze though so expect MEN to come out fighting.

More good news for Liverpool though, the bookings seem to be rolling in non stop.

^^

Perhaps he doesn't want to play to an empty shed down the road.:tongue4:

The Lib/Dems have been publishing details of their Spring Conference at the arena; the pdf agenda booklet has a great large pic of the Liver Buildings.

http://www.libdems.org.uk/conference/

http://www.libdems.org.uk/media/conference/S08PrelimAgenda.pdf

^^

That's a great photo, really clear. I actually think the Lib Dem Spring Conference will be the next big event to score the city lots of good publicity. We all know how the rolling news channels like to cover the party conferences from virtually every angle possible, so it should get us a good bit of exposure.

the bookings seem to be rolling in non stop.

That's what's so exciting at the minute. Other than the Christmas/New Year break, can anyone remeber a period of longer than about 10 days without another event being announced at the ACC. I certainly can't.

From accliverpool.com -

Crowded House

09 Jul 08

Concert: Arena

Ticket Prices: £27.50, £32.50 (a limited number of gold circle are also available)

Crowded House are the latest act to sign up for the Summer Pops, following on from last December's sold-out UK arena tour, they will perform at the Pops on Wednesday 9th July.

With singer/songwriter, Neil Finn at the helm, the band's best loved hits include of "Don't Dream It's Over", "Weather With You", "Fall At Your Feet" and "Four Seasons In One Day."

New Zelander, Finn, a keen Liverpool supporter is looking forward to his Liverpool show "There’s a sense of humour and the warmth you get from the people. Liverpool has always been a great place to play" he continues "I'd really love to visit Anfield, I’ve never had the opportunity, but that would be great."

Last year saw the reformation of the band, and the release of the critically acclaimed album "Time On Earth", which entered the UK charts at number three and included the singles "Don’t Stop Now," "She Called Up" and "Pour Le Monde."

http://www.accliverpool.com/whatson/crowdedhouse.asp

i understand Elton John is soo to be confirmed to the line up for the summer pops

^^

Not my cup of tea, but he'd certainly be the highest profile artist to perform at the arena, before the MTV Awards. I like how they now seem to be signing artists that are a little more diverse after the run of pop artists and boybands like the Backstreet Boys, Boyzone, Westlife, Shayne Ward, Girls Aloud etc.

Not my cup of tea,

This phrase should be set as some kind of default message whenever anyone posts in this thread. It'd save us all having to type it over and over again. :)

What the fuck does "take the weather with you" mean? Load of shite. :ohno:

What the fuck does "take the weather with you" mean? Load of shite. :ohno:

its a song about Michael Fish MBE

http://news.bbc.co.uk/nol/shared/spl/hi/pop_ups/04/magazine_michael_fish_retires/img/3.jpg

The Convention Centre continues to reel them in -


INORMS Congress

16-19 Jun 08

Conference: Convention Centre

The second congress of the International Network of Research Management Societies will provide research administrators from all over the world to explore the similarities in our roles and activities, and identify the essential aspects of research management that cross national boundaries. The Congress will include a wide range of parallel working sessions with topics of interest to everyone working in research administration, from those new to the professions to the most experienced managers.

Sessions will be organised under nine themes:

• Research funding and funding opportunities
• Policy and strategy
• Research integrity, ethics and governance
• Systems and operations
• Management and organisation of research support
• Developing and supporting researchers
• Developing professional research managers and administrators
• Dissemination and translation of research
• Assessing research

Hosted by the UK's Association of Research Managers and Administrators, the congress will include a full social programme and opportunities to explore Liverpool - the European Capital of Culture for 2008 - and the surrounding area.

http://www.accliverpool.com/whatson/inorms.asp



I don't know where they're finding all of these groups from - I've never heard of some of them - but it's great news for the city.

The Convention Centre continues to reel them in -



I don't know where they're finding all of these groups from - I've never heard of some of them - but it's great news for the city.

I think part of the reason we've never heard of a lot of these groups before is because they've never had any reason to grace our fair city before! All the better that they're coming now though... :banana:

TUC conference in 2009 will be in Liverpool, at the new conference centre.

Seems to just about be the deathnail for the seaside resort conference season with only the Lib Dems still using them (I think), all the others having now moved inland.

Don't you mean death knell Metro? Think you're confusing it with 'last nail in the coffin' e.g 10p rise in Mersey Tunnel tolls.

Good for business.

However,

On behalf of the Liverpool dockers I want to thank them for all their support during the stike.

(I've got the Jimmy McGovern DVD. I know what I'm talking about :baeh3:)

Don't you mean death knell Metro? Think you're confusing it with 'last nail in the coffin' e.g 10p rise in Mersey Tunnel tolls.

Yes, suppose you are right ;)

English never was my strong point :)

Deathnail could be a new word - a lot quicker than "final nail in the coffin."

TUC conference in 2009 will be in Liverpool, at the new conference centre.

Seems to just about be the deathnail for the seaside resort conference season with only the Lib Dems still using them (I think), all the others having now moved inland.

I thought the Lib Dems where coming to Liverpool as well?

Dunno, the Lib Dem web site claims that one for Bournemouth between 14th and 17th Sept 2008.

Think the smaller spring version may be in Liverpool.

Cannot edit my previous post, the spring conference definately is in Liverpool.

TUC conference in 2009 will be in Liverpool, at the new conference centre.

Seems to just about be the deathnail for the seaside resort conference season with only the Lib Dems still using them (I think), all the others having now moved inland.

Look at a map, Kurt.

Awayo, I meant from the traditional seaside resorts of Brighton, Blackpool and Bornemouth, as I mentioned on the line above.

For some reason, I don't consider Liverpool to be aseaside resort.

Cannot edit my previous post, the spring conference definately is in Liverpool.

No worries, i didn't realise they had two, i don't keep up with politics that much.:)

Don't you mean death knell Metro? Think you're confusing it with 'last nail in the coffin' e.g 10p rise in Mersey Tunnel tolls.

:lol:

Awayo, I meant from the traditional seaside resorts of Brighton, Blackpool and Bornemouth, as I mentioned on the line above.

For some reason, I don't consider Liverpool to be aseaside resort.

I agree that the fashion is towards big city conferences rather than coastal towns. But there are exceptions to this in Brighton and Liverpool, which are both metropolitan in character as well as being by the sea. Liverpool is ideally placed, in that it conforms to the fashion for going to a big city for a conference, as well as giving delegates a bit of a "by the seaside" stroll. At least it will once the public realm is complete and you walk all the way from Kings Dock up to Alexandra Tower. That is going to be one hell of a walk, and hugely more interesting and enjoyable than strolling around an inland town for an hour. The Mersey Ferries do a good business out of conferences, and that is going to boom - its a great add-on for conference organisers to offer as an optional activity by chartering a ferry in the evening, or delegates having a breakfast mini-cruise. That is the sort of thing inland cities just can't match. Add the proximity of L1, the fleshed-out Kings Dock area which is turning into a sophisticated urban quarter, and - and I accept I am probably biased - probably THE single best location for conferences in the entire country.

But.......a year ago the conference organiser for one very large national organisation told me she had never been to Liverpool; thought it was a long way away (she thought it took a lot longer to get there from London than to Manchester); and that delegates would not want to go there. So there are some surprisingly ignorant people in the industry who need to visit the city for an eye-opener.

Two more for the Arena -

Deacon Blue

11 Jul 08

Concert: Arena

Ticket Prices: £22.50 / £26.50 (a limited number of gold circle are available)

Deacon Blue, are the latest act to sign up for the Summer Pops extravaganza, alongside confirmed artists Michael Buble and Crowded House. Following on from last year's sell-out Pops show, Deacon Blue will perform on Friday 11th July.

Their third consecutive Pops show, underlines the affinity the band has with this City and their Scouse fans "We’re really looking forward to being back in Liverpool, especially in the Capital of Culture year " says singer-songwriter Ricky Ross "I’m sure the accolade will do a lot of good for the City, especially as we saw how Glasgow changed since it was awarded the honour back in 1990."

In 2008, Deacon Blue are still in demand, playing live shows throughout the UK. At their height, Deacon Blue was one of the most commercially successful British bands of the time, with 18 UK Top 40 hit singles and 5 Top 5 UK albums, 2 of which were No 1 albums. Deacon Blue first stormed the charts back in 1988 with the single, "Dignity." Other hits include "Real Gone Kid" and "Chocolate Girl". Whilst their 2005 "Singles" album hit the Top 20.

http://www.accliverpool.com/whatson/deaconblue.asp

and

CBeebies Live

04 Jan 09

Family entertainment: Arena

Ticket Prices: Adult - £22.50 / £19.50 / £15.50, Child - £19.00 / £16.50 / £12.50 (family tickets available)

Showtime 11am / 2pm / 5pm

CBeebies Live! is back with an all new Christmas Spectacular. Come and join the CBeebies megastars in a magical musical adventure. Book now to bring the family to this fun-filled production that will enchant and delight the very young and the young at heart.

Take advantage of the early bird offer and receive £10 off family tickets for the 11am performance. Offer available until 1st June only.

You can also take advantage of the 'Fiver Off At Five' offer where you will receive £5 off all children's tickets for the 5pm performance only.

More information coming soon!

http://www.accliverpool.com/whatson/cbeebies.asp

It's good to see first time visitors this year bringing their event back to the city next year.

Whilst abhorring violence of all forms, I cannot help but appreciate the muscular integrity of the crowd of Reading festival's criticism of Deacon Blue when it took the form of their quite literally bottling them off stage less than a minute into their set back in 1988.

TUC conference in 2009 will be in Liverpool, at the new conference centre.

Wow! Not a surprise, I suppose, but still fantastic. The city centre is going to be so much better in 2009 than in 2008, with a lot of the current construction boom completed, roads and pavements back in order, and some of the planting (eg in Chavasse) presumably maturing.

I know Tony (Sebo) for one is trying to not see any of this change currently so he can enjoy a surprise later (although he admitted to a sneaky peak of one new vista), but I honestly think the feel of that river-side strip in 2009 is going to be way beyond what any of us can currently imagine.

For some reason, I don't consider Liverpool to be a seaside resort.

Because there's only room for one seaside resort in the North West and that has to be Manchester?

:lol:

There'll be pleanty more coming up at the arena in the coming months folks. Its safe to say the guys at MEN will be doing their nut a few times throughout 2008 seen as Micheal Buble and WWE arent the only 'North West only' gigs we will be seeing.

Whilst abhorring violence of all forms, I cannot help but appreciate the muscular integrity of the crowd of Reading festival's criticism of Deacon Blue when it took the form of their quite literally bottling them off stage less than a minute into their set back in 1988.

Arf.

The MEN likes advertising in the Liverpool Echo doesn't it! ,massive spread in the paper today, what made me laugh is that they were advertising for Westlife....why? if you are interested in them you would just go the Kings Dock surely.

^^

Westlife is sold out at the Echo Arena so I reckon the MEN is just scouting for business as they still have tickets unsold. It's not a bad business move really, and something that I hope the Echo Arena does in the Manchester Evening News for events where the MEN Arena sells out before the Echo Arena does.

Didn't realise they had completely sold out to be honest, if thats the case maybe they should have milked it and added another date, wonder how many they are doing at the MEN. Might tell us something about the gap we still have to make up.

^^

The Westlife tour is a bit weird. They're doing quite a few dates in February/March, but then it goes quiet before they return for more dates in May. In total they are performing the following number of times -

Belfast - 3
Liverpool - 1
London - 3*
Newcastle - 2
Cardiff - 4
Birmingham - 3
Manchester - 3
Glasgow - 4
Nottingham - 2
Sheffield - 2
Aberdeen - 1

* - Two nights at The O2, one more at Wembley Arena.

In some respects I suppose you could argue that Liverpool is getting short-changed a little in view of the fact we are only getting one date, while other cities are getting up to 4 dates. This is despite some of them having bigger facilities, thus offering the fans a better chance of obtaining a ticket. In other words, you might expect them to give the smaller venues the extra dates to allow more local fans a chance to attend.

It would be interesting to know what impact the proximity of Liverpool to Manchester has played in them deciding not to add another show in Liverpool in May, especially when other cities (those in bold above) are being re-visited. Maybe they viewed Liverpool as being 'local' enough to Manchester that they decided not to do a return show here as well/instead?

Equally of interest, the arena 30miles to our east has 2 nights as well.

I don't remember all these comparisons between Manc and Sheffield when the NYNEX (as it was back then) opened.

We were simply happy it was there, it wasn't a case of putting one over on Sheffield when the concerts started coming our way.

In the future, wouldn't comparisons with Sheffield be of more interest? Since Hallam Arena is also about 1hr drive from the east side of the MEN, and as such, is in a similar position with regards competition? Plus it's the same size.

I don't remember all these comparisons between Manc and Sheffield when the NYNEX (as it was back then) opened.

True, but then there has always been a strong rivalry between Liverpool and Manchester -something that doesn't exist (much) between Manchester and Sheffield.

We were simply happy it was there, it wasn't a case of putting one over on Sheffield when the concerts started coming our way.

When people on here, myself included, comment about getting one over on the MEN, it's very tongue-in-cheek. The above rivalry between the cities I feel for the most part has always been good-natured (football excluded), and this is merely a continuation of that gentle ribbing at each others expense. It's just nice to see our city one again competing with the big boys so to speak, and even nicer if we can get something they haven't. It's light-hearted banter, it's never mean or vindictive.

In the future, wouldn't comparisons with Sheffield be of more interest? Since Hallam Arena is also about 1hr drive from the east side of the MEN, and as such, is in a similar position with regards competition? Plus it's the same size.

True. As a venue in a similar situation, it will always be worth comparing notes with the facility in Sheffield. However, although they have several things in common, I don't think there is a strong argument to support the case that the Sheffield and Liverpool venues are competing. There is a very strong case that Liverpool and Manchester are competing, particularly if an artist/event is only doing one North West date. As such, comparisons with the MEN are inevitable, and will routinely come up time and again from now on.

:lol:

:lol:

From the Echo -

Cirque du Soleil latest big name for ECHO Arena

Feb 18 2008 by Mary Murtagh, Liverpool Echo

THE international music and theatre extravaganza Cirque du Soleil is coming to Liverpool’s ECHO Arena.

The world-famous show, which mixes theatre with video projections and death-defying acrobatics, has never taken place in the city before, and the arena is hosting the only dates in the north west for the 2008 Delirium tour.

The cast of 36 artists from 15 countries will entertain the crowds on March 25 and 26 after the critically-acclaimed entertainment group teamed up with Live Nation.

Tim Banfield, general manager of the ECHO Arena, said: “This is a major coup for the city, hosting the only 2008 dates in the north west for what will be a truly amazing experience and a great addition to Liverpool’s cultural year.”

Cirque du Soleil chose Liverpool for the tour due to its thriving cultural scene.

They began 20 years ago as a group of penniless street performers in Quebec. Today they are among the top entertainers in the world, performing sell-out shows to millions.

The Delirium tour will feature ground-breaking arena productions using holograms, virtual reality, multi-media sound and imaging to create a magical world of theatre, dance, music, stunning acrobatics and video projections.

The show, which features eight musicians, six singers, 11 dancers, eight acrobats and three main characters, has a 130-foot stage honeycombed with traps and flying rigs so actors can materialise from the depths, or float over an illuminated sky.

There are 540 feet of projection surface, the equivalent of four Imax screen, setting the stage for a colossal multimedia presentation and experience.

Ticket information

Tickets go on sale on Friday 22 February at 9am, priced at £45 and £55 (subject to booking and handling fee).

To book tickets log on to www.accliverpool.com or call the Echo Arena Box Office on 0844 8000 400.

http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/liverpool-news/local-news/2008/02/18/cirque-du-soleil-latest-big-name-for-echo-arena-100252-20488926/

:applause::applause::applause:

A big hand to the all those at the ACC. Every time a new event is announced, they manage to surprise by topping what has gone before. :)

I have seen Cirque in London and they are fantastic - best in the world at what they do. It's a pity that they are not bringing their Beatles thang here but maybe they have figured that we're all Beatled out (I know I am).

Whatever you do don't miss this one.

Here's the official site - http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/CirqueDuSoleil/en/showstickets/delirium_europe/about/default.htm

This is a show I've always been intrigued by, but I've never seen. Babs, you say not to miss it, but is it really that good to justify £45+?

...needs a serious redesign.

The original one was stylish and classy. This one is neither stylish nor classy, nor even easy or clear.

You need people to be able to see all your events at 1 click, not 6, and you need to show off your big-hitting attractions, regardless.

ACC. Bam! MTV.


As an aside, Westlife aren't exactly breaking box-office records are they?

Westlife are sold out here tho vill? Surely thats enough. Also, the website is much of a muchness though the last was easier to navigate.

I agree that the MTV Awards should be highly prominent on the homepage. It may be months away, but it's possibly the biggest hitter the arena is ever likely to host, and accordingly a lot of noise should be made over it.

As for event listings, the MEN and other arena websites manage to get all their upcoming events on one page, but then they don't trade a lot in exhibitions and conferences, the way the ACC does. Add those to the list, and a single page would probably become as awkward as the several page set-up we have now.

Also I metioned on here a few weeks ago that they need to keep their site more up to date with upcoming events. There are a good half dozen or more events, some quite high-profile, that still aren't listed despite being known about for months. The BCSC conference, is a big deal, yet no mention of it is on the website. They are doing a fantastic job of securing a wide and varied line-up of events, but then under-sell themselves by not mentioning some of them.

Here's the official site - http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/CirqueDuSoleil/en/showstickets/delirium_europe/about/default.htm

This is a show I've always been intrigued by, but I've never seen. Babs, you say not to miss it, but is it really that good to justify £45+?

I went to see Delirium at the MEN last year, it was ok. The bits that did impress were very, very impressive - the acrobats and the girl with the hoops especially, but we were so far from the stage you could barely see them and that spoiled it for me somewhat. I think it would be better suited to a smaller arena like ours :) I wasn't a big fan of the flamboyant, arty-farty musical bits though, but my better half loved it.

^^

Thanks yoshef. I wouldn't say it's typically my cup of tea (there's that phrase again). But it so regularly comes up as one of those things you just have to see, I wondered whether it was worth it.

I agree that the MTV Awards should be highly prominent on the homepage. It may be months away, but it's possibly the biggest hitter the arena is ever likely to host, and accordingly a lot of noise should be made over it.

As for event listings, the MEN and other arena websites manage to get all their upcoming events on one page, but then they don't trade a lot in exhibitions and conferences, the way the ACC does. Add those to the list, and a single page would probably become as awkward as the several page set-up we have now.

Also I metioned on here a few weeks ago that they need to keep their site more up to date with upcoming events. There are a good half dozen or more events, some quite high-profile, that still aren't listed despite being known about for months. The BCSC conference, is a big deal, yet no mention of it is on the website. They are doing a fantastic job of securing a wide and varied line-up of events, but then under-sell themselves by not mentioning some of them.


why as it is unlikely that we will ever be able to buy tickets for the MTV awards, also i believe westlife have sold out the arena!

^^

In it's first year, the ACC needs to attract events, but without having a proven track record to convince people of why they should come to the ACC over other venues. One way of doing that is by people, 'following the crowd'. If promoters are organising a new tour for someone/thing, and see a huge list of events at a new facility, including an event from one of the biggest media organisations in the world, they are likely to look favourably on the venue, and investigate it further for their event. Burying something as high-profile as the MTV Awards is rather under-selling the facility IMO.

Even if the general public aren't able to attend an event, it doesn't do you any harm to advertise the fact you are hosting that event, in order to sell your facility and raise it's profile to potential future customers. From next year onwards, it will probably become easier to attract events as there will be a successful track record to prove the facilities capabilities. Although even next year, I still think there will be nothing wrong with shouting about the events coming to the ACC, in order to further enhance the reputation of the venue.

why as it is unlikely that we will ever be able to buy tickets for the MTV awards

That's not the point though.

Here's the official site - http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/CirqueDuSoleil/en/showstickets/delirium_europe/about/default.htm

This is a show I've always been intrigued by, but I've never seen. Babs, you say not to miss it, but is it really that good to justify £45+?

Yes it is. I saw them at the Albert Hall which obviously is a much smaller venue than the Arena. They were what they say on the packet, and very French in their sensibility (not afraid of ideas and giving them dramatic form).

I'm not sure about how the show will play at the Arena. I attended Liverpool: The Musical there and it felt just about intimate enough to get away with a show with a strong visual element of the kind Cirque specialise in.

A week at the empire might have been ideal but it was probably booked up or not able to produce the required special effects.

Having said all that, if it's not really your 'cup of tea' or 'arty farty' is a term that you use regularly ... maybe you should save your £45 for something you might really enjoy. Pete Postlethwaite in King Lear, for example. :)

That's not the point though.

the wesbsite has been set up to sell tickets for gigs that have been booked, tour managers etc will know that MTV is coming to Liverpool, it is afterall the industry in which they work... putting we have the MTV awards website is not going convince or not convince people that they should bring their events to the arena - FACT!

Thanks Babs. I never use the term 'arty farty', and I suppose I'm just going on what I've read about it in terms of it not being my cup of tea. I could be pleasantly surprised. I might look into that. Thanks. :)

the wesbsite has been set up to sell tickets for gigs that have been booked

Yes. But it's also been set-up to sell the facility. If a promoter is looking at venues, they are going to go to the official website, as part of their inquiries. It doesn't hurt to give them a good impression by showcasing your biggest events.

tour managers etc will know that MTV is coming to Liverpool, it is afterall the industry in which they work... putting we have the MTV awards website is not going convince or not convince people that they should bring their events to the arena - FACT!

It may not be the deciding factor, but if I was a promoter looking at Liverpool as a destination for my tour for the first time, seeing a organisation as big as MTV holding an event there would make me more likely to investigate the city more.

Even if you don't buy those arguments, it's a big coup for the arena, in it's debut year to scoop probably the biggest music event in the world. I really don't see why the ACC website is playing down this achievement by burying it on Page 9 of the events listings.

Yes. But it's also been set-up to sell the facility. If a promoter is looking at venues, they are going to go to the official website, as part of their inquiries. It doesn't hurt to give them a good impression by showcasing your biggest events.



It may not be the deciding factor, but if I was a promoter looking at Liverpool as a destination for my tour for the first time, seeing a organisation as big as MTV holding an event there would make me more likely to investigate the city more.

Even if you don't buy those arguments, it's a big coup for the arena, in it's debut year to scoop probably the biggest music event in the world. I really don't see why the ACC website is playing down this achievement by burying it on Page 9 of the events listings.

the point i am trying to make is that if you were a promoter who was capable of staging something at the arena then you would already know about MTV and pretty much everything else...

MTV as good as it is is one night in November that the arena will probably not make money on, in the meantime it has thousands of tickets it needs to be selling in the meantime!


Dont worry MTV will come back on the radar nearer the time
!

^^

Fair enough Busta. It's just that not only have we waited a quarter of a century for an arena, now we have one, it's securing events of the calibre we couldn't even have dreamed off just a few years ago, and as such it's not going to do any harm to blow our own trumpet a little.

Thanks for posting the good news Chris

I have seen their shows in Vegas three times and yes its expensive and it can at certain times be a bit 'artsy' but Ive never seen anything quite like it. I think mesmerizing is the closest word I can use.

Well worth it IMHO.

Great to see it being brought to Liverpool even though 'LOVE' their show based on Beatles music which is currently on at the Mirage in Vegas would have been a natural fit - at least for visitors.

I have seen their shows in Vegas three times and yes its expensive and it can at certain times be a bit 'artsy' but Ive never seen anything quite like it. I think mesmerizing is the closest word I can use.

Well worth it IMHO.

Great to see it being brought to Liverpool even though 'LOVE' their show based on Beatles music which is currently on at the Mirage in Vegas would have been a natural fit - at least for visitors.

IIRC it was £65 each at the MEN last year, which I wouldn't pay again to be honest - £45 is far more reasonable.

Thanks for posting the good news Chris

No problem. It's nice at the minute that there is so often good news to share about things happening in the city.

Great to see it being brought to Liverpool even though 'LOVE' their show based on Beatles music which is currently on at the Mirage in Vegas would have been a natural fit - at least for visitors.

That raises an interesting point. How much influence (if any) does the tourist scene in a particular city have in determining which city's will be visited on a tour? Visiting a city and taking in a show is a long-standing activity that many millions part-take in each year. But normally these are stage shows, I wonder if arena shows have the same kind of appeal to visitors?

From the Daily Post -

Conference centre set to be a prize venue from the start

Feb 21 2008 by Liza Williams, Liverpool Daily Post

LIVERPOOL’S new waterfront conference centre has been named the best event venue in the UK – before any delegates have even entered the building.

Judges bestowed the accolade on ACC Liverpool, which comprises the BT Convention Centre and Echo Arena, at the International Confex conference, held each February at Earls Court, in London.

It is a huge coup for the team behind the BT Convention Centre – where the £164m Liverpool conferences will be held – ahead of the very first delegates being welcomed this month.

More than 15,000 people, including event organisers and buyers from across the globe, attend International Confex each year to compare and select new venues and services, making it the biggest convention of its kind in Europe.

The judges said of ACC Liverpool: “This is a venue that has grabbed headlines since the turn of the year. It is a 21st- century green, sustainable venue – a shining example of best practice.

“This is a venue worthy of the claim: Capital of Conference.”

Jacquie Rogers, BT Convention Centre general manager, said: ‘To be named Best UK Venue in our inaugural year really is overwhelming.

“The accolade is a reflection, not just of our magnificent, cutting-edge building, but also the phenomenal efforts of the convention centre team working behind the scenes.

“We have attracted some of the highest-profile organisations in the country to the BT Convention Centre – from the Liberal Democrats to the Royal College of Nursing and the British Chambers of Commerce.

“What’s even more encouraging is that organisations aren’t just booking for 2008 during Liverpool’s year as European Capital of Culture – the TUC is just one example of an organisation which we’ll be hosting in 2009. If ever there was proof of the legacy of this year, then ACC Liverpool is it.”

ACC Liverpool also won the accolade of Best Marketing Campaign at Confex. This was for pre-show teaser campaign called Let The Show Begin – which used a combination of digital media and other innovative touches including the presence of a magician at the event, who entertained potential clients.

The BT Convention Centre will host the majority of ACC Liverpool’s conferences and houses 1,350 seats, a 3,725 sq metre multi-purpose hall and 18 further meeting rooms.

Total exhibition space is in excess of 7,000 sq metres. The adjoining Echo Arena Liverpool has 10,600 seats and hosts major entertainment and sporting events.

http://www.liverpooldailypost.co.uk/liverpool-news/regional-news/2008/02/21/conference-centre-set-to-be-a-prize-venue-from-the-start-64375-20502741/

With everything being lined-up for the ACC, and now this award, has there ever been a more successful venue launch?

Shoot and SCORE!!!

BBC Sports Personality of the Year

22 Feb 08

The Echo Arena to host the live awards event on Sunday 14 December 2008

The BBC announced today that the BBC Sports Personality of the Year event will be held at The Echo Arena Liverpool and will be covered live on BBC ONE on Sunday 14 December.

The state of the art Echo Arena Liverpool is a 10,600 seat entertainment and sporting venue and is part of the Arena and Convention Centre Liverpool, the venue for the launch of the city's Capital of Culture celebrations.

With tickets for the previous two shows selling out within three hours, the increase in the size of the venue will also allow an increase in the total size of the audience. Last year 8,000 people were able to view the show live and the move to Liverpool, for this year's event, will allow even greater numbers to experience the unique atmosphere.

Roger Mosey, Director of Sport, said: "It feels right to be taking Sports Personality of the Year to the great sporting city of Liverpool, and it's particularly exciting to be part of the Capital of Culture events. We've had a great time in Birmingham in the past two years and we'd love to go back there in future, but this shows our commitment to taking the event to venues outside London and to allowing as many people as possible to see their sporting heroes."

Arena and Convention Centre Liverpool chief executive Bob Prattey said: "This is a major achievement for the city of Liverpool and for our venue. It is entirely fitting that a city with such an illustrious sporting history and pedigree should host these awards during its year as European Capital of Culture.

Echo Arena general manager Tim Banfield added: "We are delighted to be hosting this year's awards ceremony, which will bring invaluable exposure to Liverpool at a time when the city is going through an unprecedented period of renaissance.

"The Echo Arena is at the heart of this renaissance and is arguably the finest venue of its kind in the UK, if not Europe."

The BBC Sports Personality of the Year event, supported by Robinsons, recorded viewing figures of 8.6m people watching Joe Calzaghe win the 2007 BBC Sports Personality of the Year Award.

Programme, ticket and voting details will be announced nearer the time.

For further information from BBC Sport Publicity contact:
Louisa Fyans or Scott Branch
BBC Sport Publicity
T. 020 8624 8210 or 020 8225 9900
E. Louisa.Fyans@bbc.co.uk / Scott.Branch@bbc.co.uk

Or

Emma McHarrie at the Echo Arena - T: 0151 703 7236
E: emma.mcharrie@accliverpool.com

http://www.accliverpool.com/news/spoty.asp

Shoot and SCORE!!!

Brilliant, this AND Aussie Pink Floyd doing two gigs (i've already got my tickets), Superb news:cheers::banana:

^^

Yup, just about to post about that. Here's the details -

First Date -

The Australian Pink Floyd Show

04 Jul 08

Concert: Arena

Ticket Prices: £22.50 / £24.50 (a limited amount of gold circle are available)

The Australian Pink Floyd Show will perform two classic albums and a special ‘fans request’ set for their first 2008 Summer Pops extravaganza.

Back by huge popular demand, having been voted the Summer Pops favourite artist, The Australian Pink Floyd Show are set to make it their seventh year running at the Pops, when they take to the stage at the new Echo Arena Liverpool in July.

On Friday 4th July they will perform Wish You Were Here and The Best Of The Wall and on Saturday 26th July they will perform Dark Side Of The Moon and Animals.

On both nights they will also perform a special 'fans request' set, as Aussie Floyd fans will be able to request their favourite Pink Floyd tracks. Fans can vote through the official Summer Pops Facebook group or can email on aussiefloyd@cmplive.com.

"It's no secret that we've got a very special bond with the Liverpool audience" said keyboard player, Jason Sawford, currently on tour in Sweden: "So for our seventh Pops performance and because it's a special year for the City we wanted to do something unique, to thank our Liverpool fans for the support over the years. To reproduce four classic albums is going to be a massive task but we can't wait and it's going to be exciting for us to see what extra songs the fans request."

The Aussies have played to over 55,000 Pops fans - more than any other act in Pops history and have played close to two million people world wide!

http://www.accliverpool.com/whatson/aussiepink.asp



and the second date -

The Australian Pink Floyd Show - Second Date

26 Jul 08

Concert: Arena

Ticket Prices: £22.50 / £24.50 (a limited amount of gold circle are available)

The Australian Pink Floyd Show will perform two classic albums and a special ‘fans request’ set for their second 2008 Summer Pops extravaganza.

Back by huge popular demand, having been voted the Summer Pops favourite artist, The Australian Pink Floyd Show are set to make it their seventh year running at the Pops, when they take to the stage at the new Echo Arena Liverpool in July.

On Saturday 26th July they will perform Dark Side Of The Moon and Animals. They will also be performing on 4th July with a different setlist.

On both nights they will also perform a special 'fans request' set, as Aussie Floyd fans will be able to request their favourite Pink Floyd tracks. Fans can vote through the official Summer Pops Facebook group or can email on aussiefloyd@cmplive.com.

"It's no secret that we've got a very special bond with the Liverpool audience" said keyboard player, Jason Sawford, currently on tour in Sweden: "So for our seventh Pops performance and because it's a special year for the City we wanted to do something unique, to thank our Liverpool fans for the support over the years. To reproduce four classic albums is going to be a massive task but we can't wait and it's going to be exciting for us to see what extra songs the fans request."

The Aussies have played to over 55,000 Pops fans - more than any other act in Pops history and have played close to two million people world wide!

http://www.accliverpool.com/whatson/aussiepink2.asp

Shoot and SCORE!!!

Great news Chris! I think the BBC had no choice but to hold this event in Liverpool this year, to not do so would have been scandalous. But I just wonder - with what Phil Redmond had to say about a financial incentive - if any funding has been offered to the BBC from the culture company.

Great news Chris! I think the BBC had no choice but to hold this event in Liverpool this year, to not do so would have been scandalous. But I just wonder - with what Phil Redmond had to say about a financial incentive - if any funding has been offered to the BBC from the culture company.

Would that be legal for the BBC to do in this country, considering we pay a license fee, selling merchandise and making money i have no problem with.

Wouldn't the BBC have to pay the ACC to use the arena, or negotiate a deal, maybe the BBC negotiating a favourable deal is what is meant, so as to get good value for the License payer.

To be honest, provided it isn't an extortionate amount, personally I'm not too concerned if the Culture Company has made a contribution. The media interest and positive exposure this event will bring the city is surely worth a few beans? Also as was mentioned at the time it was revealed we were bidding, Capital of Culture had the feeling of petering out after the MTV Awards. Now we have a big event to keep the momentum going almost until Christmas.

This feels much like a speculate to accumulate type situation, and as such I think I actually would have been annoyed if we had lost the event for the sake of a payment to the BBC.

:banana:

just seen the bbc post - fantastic :D

Great news!

This will also come after the dust has settled on most of Liverpool 1, so any visitors will be able to wander about all our new shops, take a stroll through our new park, eat in our new restaurants and walk over the docks to our amazing new arena.

A good day indeed.

Would that be legal for the BBC to do in this country, considering we pay a license fee, selling merchandise and making money i have no problem with.

Wouldn't the BBC have to pay the ACC to use the arena, or negotiate a deal, maybe the BBC negotiating a favourable deal is what is meant, so as to get good value for the License payer.

In a BBC Liverpool interview, following the 2007 Sports Personality Award event in Birmingham, Redmond was asked about the possibility of bringing the award to the arena and he replied that they had made enquiries but he fumed that the BBC were looking for a financial contribution from the culture company. In addition, he sarcastically remarked about the BBC being the prime British broadcaster whilst largely ignoring the biggest arts festival happening on its doorstep.

To be honest, provided it isn't an extortionate amount, personally I'm not too concerned if the Culture Company has made a contribution. The media interest and positive exposure this event will bring the city is surely worth a few beans? Also as was mentioned at the time it was revealed we were bidding, Capital of Culture had the feeling of petering out after the MTV Awards. Now we have a big event to keep the momentum going almost until Christmas.

This feels much like a speculate to accumulate type situation, and as such I think I actually would have been annoyed if we had lost the event for the sake of a payment to the BBC.


I agree, the BBC should make the most favourable deal which gets value for money as far as licence payers are concerned, but I'm uneasy about the use of 'financial incentives', even if this does attract huge events to Liverpool. I would sooner that event organisers were choosing to come to Liverpool because it is the place to be and because of its growing reputation as the ideal location. Having said that, if some kind of financial carrot was dangled in front of MTV executives to look favourably on Liverpool, then perhaps it is a case of using every means possible to ensure you win the event for the city.

Shoot and SCORE!!!

Fantastic. It's not a "drip drip" but big buckets of promotion and business that are landing on the city this year. I believe there will be a culmulative impact from this succession of high profile events, in that people will not just blink "oh, Liverpool", but will actually think "Ah, Liverpool again - must be something there". Let's hope the Christmas lights in L1 are good.

Fantastic. It's not a "drip drip" but big buckets of promotion and business that are landing on the city this year. I believe there will be a culmulative impact from this succession of high profile events, in that people will not just blink "oh, Liverpool", but will actually think "Ah, Liverpool again - must be something there".

Spot on. I think to a certain extent, the expectation for Liverpool to be in the running and frequently secure big events, is now beginning to erode the element of surprise that Liverpool even bothered, let alone secured some events. I think the MTV Awards was the big one that sent shockwaves in all directions. But since then, people aren't quite as surprised, when other big events like the BBC Awards - which only further the growing reputation of the city as a place capable of holding high-profile events - are announced to be taking place in the city. As you say, we are moving towards the day when people cannot ignore the fact all these high-profile events must mean things are going on in the city.

Let's hope the Christmas lights in L1 are good.

They're costing £300,000 so they'd better be.

I've just been browsing the ACC website, and come across the Testimonials page. On there are mentions of events comning to the facility this year and next, that I haven't seen mentioned before -

FITCE European Congress 2008 -
3rd-6th September 2008
http://www.fitce08.eu/welcFITCE UKome.asp

British Equine Vetinary Association Congress -
10th-13th September 2008
http://www.beva.org.uk/node/353

British Medical Ultrasound Society Annual Scientific Meeting and Exhibition -
9th-11th December 2008
http://www.bmus.org/meet-event/me-asm.asp

British Academic Conference in Otolaryngology and ENT Expo -
8th-10th July 2009
http://www.entuk.org/courses/index_html?diary_id=204

Dancing on ice is also on here as well.If it has already been mentioned ignore this.
The events are truly rolling in...This can only be mean exiting times ahead.
There could also have a knock on effect if someone has never visited liverpool before and comes to the arena, after seeing the waterfront im sure they will be wanting to explore the rest of the city on another occasion.
If you get what I mean.

First conference heralds city boom

Feb 25 2008 by Richard Down, Liverpool Daily Post

THE BT Convention Centre is to welcome its first conference delegates tomorrow heralding the start of a multi-million pound industry for Liverpool.

More than 1,000 social entrepreneurs are arriving at ACC Liverpool for the two-day Voice 08 conference.

The event will take place in part of the BT Convention Centre, which will fully open in April, as well as the adjoining Echo Arena.

Voice 08 is the UK’s conference for social enterprise – profit-making businesses which are set up to tackle environmental and social needs. Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen, Café direct and The Big Issue are all examples.

Speakers at the event will include Rt Hon Hazel Blears MP, Secretary of State for Communities and Government, and it will also feature a fair-trade fashion show, a conference for young social entrepreneurs and a range of performances celebrating Liverpool’s year as European Capital of Culture.

The conference will be the first use of the BT Convention Centre’s 3,725 square metre multi-purpose hall on its lower floor. The upper floor will feature three auditoriums and 18 breakout rooms when finished.

The completion will mark the start of a new multi-million industry for Liverpool. Conference delegates are set to arrive in the city from organisations as diverse as the British Chambers of Commerce, the Royal College of Nursing and the Association of Chief Police Officers.

Events such as these are expected to generate around £60m in economic impact to the Liverpool city region in 2008 alone. Claire Dove, CEO of Blackburne House and chair of the Social Enterprise Coalition, which is organising the event, said: “It is wonderful to be here in my hometown for this conference, particularly during its year as European Capital of Culture. The transformation Liverpool has undergone in the last 20 years is remarkable, and social enterprise has played a significant part in its renaissance.

“The green credentials of the city’s magnificent new waterfront venue, ACC Liverpool, fit well with our own values.”

Bob Prattey, chief executive of ACC Liverpool, added: “Voice 08 marks the start of Liverpool taking its first steps towards being one of the UK’s leading conference destinations. When the BT Convention Centre is fully open and functioning in April, there is no doubt about what a fantastic impact it will have on the city.”

ACC Liverpool’s partners are Liverpool City Council, Liverpool Vision, English Partnerships, the European Objective 1 programme and the North West Regional Development Agency.



:cheers:

Fantastic. It's not a "drip drip" but big buckets of promotion and business that are landing on the city this year. I believe there will be a culmulative impact from this succession of high profile events, in that people will not just blink "oh, Liverpool", but will actually think "Ah, Liverpool again - must be something there". Let's hope the Christmas lights in L1 are good.

Other folk are definitely getting the message.

I saw a couple of days ago something I can't recall seeing for a long long time (if ever): our friends from the second rate arena in the east advertising their events on TV.

Worried? Probably not quivering, but definitely concerned.:)

Other folk are definitely getting the message.

I saw a couple of days ago something I can't recall seeing for a long long time (if ever): our friends from the second rate arena in the east advertising their events on TV.

Worried? Probably not quivering, but definitely concerned.:)

I'll know we've turned a definate corner when I start to see events at the ACC being advertised on the streets of Manchester. The same goes for flights and shopping. I can't count the number of adverts I've seen for the Trafford Centre and Manchester Airport in Liverpool recently, as well as events at the MEN. Once we can turn those tables I'll be all the happier.

I'll know we've turned a definate corner when I start to see events at the ACC being advertised on the streets of Manchester. The same goes for flights and shopping. I can't count the number of adverts I've seen for the Trafford Centre and Manchester Airport in Liverpool recently, as well as events at the MEN. Once we can turn those tables I'll be all the happier.


Fair enough but we can only take one step at a time. 10+ years of feeling dependent on Manchester for such things isn't going to change overnight.

Roger Waters to play Echo Arena 15th May 2008

Only two gigs in the UK, the other is at the O2 in London.


http://www.nme.com/news/pink-floyd/34675

On BBC6music today it said Roger Waters would be playing Dark Side of the Moon at a show in London & one at the Echo Arena.

Can't find any info anywhere on the ACC website though!

Good stuff, and quite a coup too. I wonder whether all the highly successful shows by the Australian Pink Floyd in Liverpool over the last few years convinced him to come here?

Bloody hell this website is slow sometimes. I typed my message ages ago.

Can't find any info anywhere on the ACC website though!

It seems to have been announced late in the day, maybe it will be listed tomorrow?

In any event, the details are as follows -

Tickets go on-sale on this Friday (29th Feb) at 9:00am.
Pre-sale tickets are available from 9:00am tomorrow morning (27th Feb) at http://www.livenation.co.uk/rogerwaters

Liverpool tickets are £50.00
London tickets are £55.00 or £45.00

From here - http://www.brain-damage.co.uk/latest/roger-waters-to-play-uk-in-2008.html

On BBC6music today it said Roger Waters would be playing Dark Side of the Moon at a show in London & one at the Echo Arena.

Can't find any info anywhere on the ACC website though!

Received email from the Arena earlier today with the Roger Waters (15th May) and Counting Crows (8th July) details.

Received email from the Arena earlier today with the Roger Waters (15th May) and Counting Crows (8th July) details.

Got mine, apparently they're already on ebay for £150.:ohno:

^^

I'm a regular user on eBay, both buying and selling, but I think that's a disgrace. I've just checked and people are asking up to £349.99 for a pair of tickets with a combined face value of barely £100. I don't have a problem with people re-selling tickets if they genuinely intended to go, but no longer can for whatever reason. However this is blatent profiteering of the highest order. These tickets have been purchased with the sole intent of making money off genuine fans who weren't able to get tickets straight from the vendor. eBay should insist the unique ticket ID numbers are included in the listing so the venue/promotor can take action against people like this.

^^

I'm a regular user on eBay, both buying and selling, but I think that's a disgrace. I've just checked and people are asking up to £349.99 for a pair of tickets with a combined face value of barely £100. I don't have a problem with people re-selling tickets if they genuinely intended to go, but no longer can for whatever reason. However this is blatent profiteering of the highest order. These tickets have been purchased with the sole intent of making money off genuine fans who weren't able to get tickets straight from the vendor. eBay should insist the unique ticket ID numbers are included in the listing so the venue/promotor can take action against people like this.

I totally agree Chris, it's the same at the footy, i love it when you see blokes desperate to sell tickets with 5 mins to go.

Roger Waters got mine.:cheers:

Ticket Prices: £50.00 + Booking/handling


The former Pink Floyd front man will perform 'The Dark Side of the Moon' for the very last time in its entirety at Exclusive Liverpool show.
Following the amazing reviews and outstanding critical acclaim from Roger's 2007 World Tour, which included 2 sold out nights at London's Earls Court, Roger has announced that he’ll be back in the UK, and playing the Echo Arena Liverpool on May 15 in one of only two very special UK shows. The Liverpool date is the only Northern date of the tour, with the additional date being in London’s O2.

Roger Waters co-founder and principal songwriter of the archetypal progressive rock band Pink Floyd, will perform "The Dark Side Of The Moon," in its entirety at these shows, as he did to standing ovations throughout the world.

This eagerly-awaited Roger Waters show will combine an evening of music – comprised of two sets plus encores, with state-of-the-art staging, lighting and sound.

Set One will be a comprehensive overview of Waters' music including early Pink Floyd material; classic compositions from the masterpiece "The Wall"; beloved pieces from "Animals," "Wish You Were Here," and "The Final Cut"; and songs from Waters' solo tour de force: "Amused To Death" and "The Pros and Cons of Hitch Hiking."

Set Two will consist of Roger Waters and his band performing "The Dark Side Of The Moon," one of the defining works of rock music history.

The band features Chester Kamen (guitar and bass), Snowy White (guitar), Dave Kilminster (guitar and vocals), Jon Carin (keyboards and vocals), Graham Broad (drums), Harry Waters (Hammond organ) and Ian Ritchie (saxophone) with Sylvia Mason James, PP Arnold and Carol Kenyon on vocals.

The concerts will utilize elaborate large-scale video projections, theatrical staging, and a dazzling array of special effects to underscore and accentuate the power of the music which is delivered via a state-of-the-art 360° quadraphonic sound system.

************************************************************

Counting Crows


08 Jul 08
Concert: Arena

Ticket Prices: £32.50 + Booking / Handling fees


Tuesday 8 July will see Counting Crows, one of the world's biggest bands appear at the Echo Arena.

The band are a global phenomenon with a host of multiple platinum albums and Top 10 chart placings worldwide. From initial hit single, 'Mr.Jones' to 2005's 'Accidentally In Love' from the Shrek 2 soundtrack, which saw the Californian band perform at the Academy Awards, Counting Crows have been a huge presence in the music world. New album, 'Saturday Night and Sunday Morning' (due for release on 24th March) sees the band split their musical personality with the rock 'Saturday Morning' half produced by Gil Norton (of Pixies and Foo Fighters fame) whilst the more acoustic 'Sunday Morning' sees Brian Deck (Modest Mouse, Iron and Wine) at the desk.

All ticket purchases are subject to a 'per ticket' booking fee and a handling fee.

Forgot to post this last week.

Everton Tigers are to play Cheshire Jets at the Liverpool Arena next month on Wednesday March 19th in a British Basketball League match.

There is nothing as yet on the Arena or the Everton Tigers websites concerning the match.

Property Week North West Property Awards tonight at the Arena

http://www.placenorthwest.co.uk/property-week-north-west-awards.html

^^^^^ its all this stuff we dont here about that adds to how busy the whole site is aswell... property awards, the echo sports awards were there last month... bringing lots of potentially high spending people in too town....
Is the Arena and Convention centre in danger of becoming the big success story of 2008??

Is the Arena and Convention centre in danger of becoming the big success story of 2008??

Good question, I fear you are right. I thought this would take time to build, but it has really hit the ground running and seems to be winning a succession of high profile bookings. Plainly the city has a real winner on its hands.

Will be interesting to see the impact on other venues. Presumably some people will find they can't afford ACC, or it'll already be booked, and Liverpool also has a lot of other conference venues - at the universities, the Phil, St Georges Hall, the various hotels........so hopefully there will be a bit of overspill to them from all this. Additionally, they should pick up extra bookings anyway, eg once Liverpool wins the big party conferences (not just the spring ones) there will be a lot of bookings of other venues for fringe events and meetings.

I think a lot will come down to how fast we see more business-class hotels within 15 minutes walk of the venue, and that a major constraint will be hotel accommodation. Liverpool sometimes seems to fill up completely on some dates, and if you were booking a big conference you'd need to be confident you could block-book so many hundred bedrooms at the time you make the conference centre reservation. Manchester and Birmingham also sometimes suffer from this "full up" thing, so it's not unique to Liverpool.

Chester and Southports hotels and superb links on Merseyrail are a bonus for Liverpool on this score but ultimately more will have to become available closer to the main facilities.

Good points raised on the hotels. However I'm not overly concerned. Consider, within say a year, within easy walking distance of the ACC, you'll have Jury's Inn, Staybridge, Travel Inn, Crowne Plaza, Thistle, Malmaison, Hilton, Novotel, & Ramada and they are just some of the larger establishments. Then of course in the slightly longer term there will be the 5-star hotel at New World Square, and potentially the Golden Tulip at Plot 3A. Hotel accommodation is something that is going to require frequently checks to ensure the ACC (and others) aren't being held back by lack of acccommodation. However at the moment, I think we have a acceptable number of hotel rooms, either already available, or pencilled in for the next 12 months.

dont know if it has been listed but the Northwest home and garden show will be at the echo arena on 17th and 18th May

^^

It was advertised in the free Liverpool.com magazine that comes through the door a while ago. As usual, the ACC website was slower than a snail through treacle to list it.

Roger Waters got mine.:cheers:



Got mine too! Superb.

:okay:


:cheers::cheers:

Def Leppard and Whitesnake on July 15th, Diana Ross on July 12th and Mick Hucknall on July 1st all added to the Summer pops 2008.

Def Leppard and Whitesnake on July 15th, Diana Ross on July 12th and Mick Hucknall on July 1st all added to the Summer pops 2008.

Any snipers free on July 1st?

Any snipers free on July 1st?

I thought that!:lol:

Roger Waters got mine.:cheers:

got mine too!! :pepper: :D

:cheers:

Great news that more acts have been announced. The schedule is really starting to fill up now, and I think we should probably expect many more events to sign-up over the next few months as the popularity of the venue increases.

its just gets busier and buiser!!!

This could be old news, but the Senior European Boxing Championships (http://www.eaba.ru/) are taking place at the ACC between 5th-15th November 2008. With the MTV Awards taking place on the 6th, presumably this event will take place initially in the exhibition hall, perhaps moving to the arena for the finals?

Disney On Ice presents Disney/Pixar's Finding Nemo

Echo Arena Liverpool Wednesday 24 September - Sunday 28 September

For the first time ever Disney On Ice is bringing it's magical fun to Liverpool, skating into the Echo Arena on Wednesday 24 September through to Sunday 28 September.

Join the ocean-sized adventure of the curious clownfish Nemo, his overprotective father Marlin and their absent-minded yet lovable pal Dory as Disney On Ice immerses you in a vibrant aquatic world in Disney On Ice presents Disney/Pixar's Finding Nemo. Follow alongside Marlin and Dory on a daring search of the big blue. Ride the current with "super-dude" turtle Crush and make waves with Nemo's new friends - the Tank Gang -as they plot an escape from the dentist's aquarium in this whale of a tale full of laughter and fun!

Tickets go on sale on Monday 14 April, but 08 Cardholders are being offered the opportunity to buy their tickets from 9am on Wednesday 5 March.Tickets are priced from £11.50 - £33.50, subject to a booking / handling fee.


Redeem Tickets: To book your tickets, call the Echo Arena box office on 0844 8000 400 and quote '08 priority' or log on to www.accliverpool.com for more information

It's an ice show with a real bite....don't miss it!

*tickets are subject to availability


Contact details:

Liverpool Echo Arena,
King's Dock,
Liverpool

Tel: 0844 8000 400

^^

Fantastic news. There was a report in the Echo from last summer that mentioned Disney On Ice coming to the arena, but everything went very quiet so I assumed it was just a suggestion that hadn't panned out. Looking around the other arenas, Disney On Ice seems to be a regular feature at other venues. As such it's good that we are on the tour as well. It's all very well scoring coups over the other venues, but you need to be on the regular tour circuit as well to offer a fully-rounded line-up of events, so this is good news.

EDIT - We should also expect to see Disney's High School Musical On Ice at the arena sometime between December and February, as mentioned here - http://www.dbpromotions.co.uk/high-school-musical.htm

just seen in the echo, def leppard/whitesnake ,15th july at the arena :banana: :cheers:

Just got me tickets for the Mighty Boosh:banana:
Has anyone seen them live before?

a five night run for disney on ice is a fair old statement.... one wonders how the city ever managed without this facility!