O2 Apollo Manchester, Manchester

The O2 Apollo Manchester, commonly referred to as The Apollo and historically known as Manchester Apollo and ABC Ardwick, stands as a prominent concert venue in Ardwick Green, Manchester. This Grade II listed building boasts a capacity of 3,500, accommodating 2,514 standing guests and 986 seated attendees. Its architectural beauty is highlighted by an Art Deco style, conceived by Peter Cummings, Alex Irvine, and R. Gillespie Williams, and features a distinctive glazed white terracotta façade.

Originally opened as a multi-purpose cinema and variety hall on August 29, 1938, by actress Margaret Lockwood, the venue has undergone significant transformations. It was acquired by Associated British Cinemas in 1943 and began hosting pop concerts in the 1960s, marking its transition towards musical prominence. Notable early performances include The Beatles in 1963 and 1965, and a 1966 concert featuring The Rolling Stones, Ike & Tina Turner, The Yardbirds, and Peter Jay & the New Jaywalkers.

By the 1970s, the venue ceased operating as a cinema and dedicated itself entirely to live music and other events. The layout includes two levels: a balcony with fixed seating and a more versatile ground floor that can be adjusted according to the event. While the venue lacks comprehensive air-conditioning, it does offer a cooled "Whiteroom" hospitality area.

Before the opening of the Manchester Arena in 1995, it was the largest venue in Manchester. Today, the O2 Apollo Manchester continues to host a vast array of popular music concerts and other events, managed by Live Nation. Merchandise sales are handled by CMI Ltd, and Saint John Ambulance provides first aid services. In 2010, following a sponsorship agreement with telecommunications giant O2, the venue was rebranded as the O2 Apollo Manchester, cementing its status as a key cultural landmark in the city.