Motorpoint Arena Cardiff celebrates 25 years in operation this month.
Owned and run by Live Nation, the arena has hosted the likes of Beyoncé, Pink, Elton John, Iron Maiden, Oasis and Panic! At The Disco, as well as international events and conferences, welcoming over 10 million fans through its doors.
The venue opened its doors with an opening gala on September 9 and 10, 1993 headlined by Dame Shirley Bassey at the then named Cardiff International Arena, followed by the official opening by The Queen on October 14, 1993. In June 1995, Diana, Princess of Wales, was in the Welsh capital to watch her friend Luciano Pavarotti perform a charity concert in her name.
General manager Phil Sheeran, who has worked at the arena for almost a decade, said: “Live Nation’s investment and commitment to the arena these past 25 years has brought some of the biggest stars and the very best music, entertainment and sporting events to Wales and the South West. The arena is a favourite for fans. Seeing international artists up close and feeling part of the action is just one of the reasons why people return time and again.
“Over the next few months there will be giveaways and special surprises to say thank you to the fans, so watch this space.”
In the past 12 months, Live Nation has invested in a number of upgrades including a brand new bar by Carlsberg called The Danish Quarter, a refurbishment of the venue's smaller Exit 7 space and L2 Restaurant & Bar, updated hospitality suites and an upgraded hearing loop system. The arena has also marked 25 year commemorations around the building with two distinct wall of fame designs featuring the names of artists that have played over the years.
Huw Thomas, leader of Cardiff Council, added: “The Arena has been an important entertainment partner in Cardiff for the past 25 years, and was a critical part of Cardiff becoming the UK’s first Music City. I see music as an important economic driver and vital component for the city’s offer when attracting new investment, and the Arena is at the heart of Cardiff’s offer. We will continue to work closely with Live Nation in the development of our strategy to offer the best in entertainment and business to Cardiff and South Wales."
