History of the Manchester Evening News Arena

The MEN Arena

The Manchester Evening News Arena history is one steeped in records and awards. It was the first UK arena to be built following the 360-degree seating plan of American stadia and is still the largest indoor venue in Europe.
The first chapter in Manchester Evening News Arena history started in 1995, when the venue was opened with a sell-out show from Torvill and Dean, performing in front of the largest ice skating audience of all time (thereby writing another page in Manchester Evening News Arena history).

Manchester Evening News Arena history is intrinsically linked to sport ? its historic opening, its status as home arena for two (now defunct) sports teams and the fact that it was built as part of Manchester?s bid to host the 1996 Summer Olympic Games all point to parts of the Manchester Evening News Arena history that will be forever associated with competition.

Indeed, sporting, and Manchester Evening News Arena, history is still being made at the venue, as it regularly stages fights between the biggest names in boxing (Ricky Hatton fought his first headline bout at the MEN) and World Wrestling Entertainment, as well as hosting other sports events.

Despite its links to sport, there will always be a space in Manchester Evening News Arena history reserved for world-class entertainment. The biggest stars in the world have played and made history at the Manchester Evening News Arena. Irish rockers U2 played to the biggest crowd of their Elevation world tour in 2002, after which Bono described the arena as ?the best concert venue in the country.? A special entry in the illustrious Manchester Evening News Arena history must go to Kylie Minogue. Last year it was revealed that she?d made Manchester Evening News Arena history by playing more shows there ? and to more people ? than at any other venue in the world.