AEG Presents has revealed the first wave of artists slated to perform at London’s much-anticipated new venue, the British Airways ARC, as it gears up to open its doors this summer.
Kicking off the venue’s opening run is Self Esteem, who will headline two nights on June 16 and 17. The launch lineup continues with pop-rock favorites McFly (June 18) and country group Zac Brown Band (June 25). Khalid is also booked for a show Oct. 24, marking his first U.K. headline date since a run of Free Spirit arena dates in late 2019.
In addition, the venue is positioning itself as a hub for musically diverse programming through a new partnership with the EFG London Jazz Festival. The collaboration will launch with a special performance from saxophonist Branford Marsalis and vocalist Dianne Reeves on Nov. 21, celebrating the legacy of jazz icon John Coltrane.
In a statement, Lucy Noble, AEG’s senior vice president (U.K. venues), said: “We are very proud of our newest venue and to have this lineup of the first incredible artists set to play is a fantastic way to begin the British Airways ARC story. When fans come to see shows at British Airways ARC, they are going to be able to enjoy world-class facilities across everything from sound to seating and we really can’t wait to open the doors.”
Situated within the new Olympia redevelopment, the British Airways ARC is a 3800-capacity concert hall aiming to become a key destination on London’s live music circuit. It is part of a £1.3 billion ($1.7 billion) renovation of the 138-year-old event space and conference centre in Kensington, west London, which was originally built to stage agricultural and military shows.
In addition, the revamped Olympia will also feature a 1,575-seat theatre, a host of bars, restaurants and eateries, two hotels and office space. AXS will provide ticketing services for British Airways ARC.
Over time, Olympia has played host to some of the most iconic artists in music, including Jimi Hendrix, Rod Stewart, Primal Scream, The Cure and The Chemical Brothers.
AEG Presents oversees an extensive portfolio of venues and live events across the U.K., including the renowned BST Hyde Park summer concert series. The company also programs venues such as the recently reopened Watford Colosseum, Indigo at The O2 and Eventim Apollo.
