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Co-op Live Launch Plunges Further Into Chaos as GM Gary Roden Resigns 3 Days Before Opening

Co-op Live arena's GM has resigned 3 days before the U.K. venue's opening. He'll be succeeded by interim GM Rebecca Kane Burton, formerly of The O2.

The troubled launch of Co-op Live, the United Kingdom ’s biggest entertainment arena, has hit further difficulties with GM Gary Roden resigning from his role just a few days ahead of the venue’s already delayed opening. Those plans were postponed after a heavily publicized preview show at the Manchester arena 48 hours prior, headlined by Rick Astley, which saw Co-op Live cut capacity, resulting in large numbers of fans’ tickets being canceled on short notice as the venue was not ready. Artists confirmed to perform at the venue this year include the Eagles, Take That, Liam Gallagher, Olivia Rodrigo, Nicki Minaj, Kid Cudi, Slipknot, Eric Clapton, Pearl Jam, Justin Timberlake, Noah Kahan and Megan Thee Stallion.

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