Coventry City of Culture: Ed Sheeran gig taking place
700 fans will be at the HMV Empire in the city centre.
The waiting is almost over as final preparations are made for Ed Sheeran's special gig in Coventry later.
700 fans won free tickets to watch the gig at the HMV Empire in the city centre this evening.
Demand was so high though, a special livestream of the concert was arranged to be shown at the Assembly Festival Garden, with 3000 people expected to attend.
It's set to be one of the major event of Coventry's year as UK City of Culture, and it's also part of HMV's 100th anniversary celebrations.
Doors are opening at the venue at 6:30
Maisie Peters will be the support act for the concert.
It’s also one of the first big events for the brand new HMV Empire in Coventry, which recently underwent a £500,000 refurbishment.
There have been some issues with people not receiving their e-tickets for tonight's gig yet though.
In a statement, the Empire says they have been re-sent to anyone who's had issues.
Ed Sheeran said:
“Very happy to say that I’ll be performing for hmv’s 100th birthday in Coventry. hmv is a store that I spent a lot of time in growing up and a place where I discovered lots of new music, so I’m looking forward to celebrating this milestone with them.”
Phil Halliday, Managing Director at hmv and Fopp, said:
“We’re delighted to be partnering with Ed and Coventry City Council in its City of Culture year to bring this special event to thousands more music fans in the region.”
Cllr Jim O’Boyle, Cabinet Member for Jobs and Regeneration said:
“This is one of the biggest events in this year’s music calendar, and it’s great to be able to bring it live to even more of the region’s music fans at Assembly Festival Garden. We’re thrilled we can now safely open up what will surely be a fantastic concert from Maisie and Ed to more people in Coventry.
“2021 was always going to be a special year for the city and once again I’m really proud to say Coventry is leading the way.”
Laura McMillan, Director of Audience Strategy at Coventry City of Culture Trust, said:
“As a music city, it’s so exciting that Coventry is hosting such a significant artist. A huge part of our plans for City of Culture are to enable people from all of Coventry’s communities to come together to experience culture in all its forms. We’re really looking forward to welcoming lots of fans to experience the gig live streamed at Assembly Festival Garden.”