The O2 Apollo Manchester, located on Stockport Road in Ardwick Green, is one of the UK's most renowned live music and events venues, with a rich history that spans back to its opening in 1938. Originally built as a multi-purpose cinema and concert hall, the Apollo was designed in the Art Deco style by architects Peter Cummings, Alex Irvine, and R. Gillespie Williams.

With a capacity of around 3,500, it has maintained its status as an intimate yet substantial venue, making it a favorite among both performers and fans. Throughout the decades, the Apollo transitioned from a cinema to a focus on live entertainment, becoming an essential fixture in Manchester’s vibrant music scene. Its reputation for excellent acoustics and atmospheric architecture has drawn audiences from across the country, contributing significantly to Manchester’s cultural identity as a city synonymous with groundbreaking music.

Over the years, the venue has undergone several upgrades and refurbishments to meet modern standards, including improvements to its technical capabilities and audience facilities, but it has retained much of its original character and decor. The addition of the O2 sponsorship in 2010 further enhanced its profile, allowing for more varied and high-profile events. Despite minor changes and updates, the venue has remained at its original location, serving as a steadfast institution in Manchester’s entertainment landscape and hosting everything from rock concerts to comedy acts and theatre productions.

The O2 Apollo Manchester is not only cherished for its storied past but also for its ongoing contribution to the city’s dynamic arts and music culture, consistently providing a platform for both legendary and emerging talent. Notable artists who have performed at the O2 Apollo Manchester include international acts such as David Bowie, Prince, Bob Dylan, The Rolling Stones, Madonna, Paul McCartney, Kylie Minogue, The Cure, Arctic Monkeys, Oasis, Lana Del Rey, Florence + The Machine, Amy Winehouse, Muse, Radiohead, Adele, Green Day, and Kendrick Lamar. The venue has also showcased local legends from Manchester’s own rich musical heritage, including The Smiths, New Order, The Stone Roses, Happy Mondays, Elbow, The 1975, and Blossoms.

This prestigious roster highlights the O2 Apollo’s enduring status as a key destination for world-class music and entertainment in the United Kingdom.