Event Calendar

Grammy Award-winning folk comedy duo Flight of the Conchords (aka Jemaine Clement and Bret McKenzie) had to postpone their UK and Ireland edition of the “Flight of the Conchords sing Flight of the Conchords Tour” due to Bret’s hand injury. Thankfully, bones heal. And now, FOTC is pleased to announce their newly rescheduled date at the first direct arena on Sunday 24th June 2018. All tickets remain valid for the rescheduled date.

Earth, Wind & Fire has become one of the world top-selling musical groups of all-time since its formation in 1969 in Chicago visiting the first direct arena for the first time this July 2018.  The band sold over 100 million albums world-wide. The Earth, Wind & Fire renown signature sound is beyond music  genre or category.  Their music has become the soundtrack of many lives for over four decades and will continue to have a long and lasting impact on popular culture for many generations to come.

Leeds Tattoo Expo will be returning to the first direct arena on 7th and 8th July 2018! We are super excited for the fifth edition of the convention, with over 170 incredible artists from the UK, Europe and beyond visiting Leeds for two days of fantastic tattoos! There will be live music and entertainment including fire breathers and a piercing show not to be missed, as well as a market of hand picked traders selling everything from t-shirts to taxidermy. Each day will finish with the ever popular Tattoo Contests, showcasing the best of the work from the weekend.

Legendary singer-songwriter and multiple Grammy award winner, James Taylor & His All-Star band, has teamed up with Bonnie Raitt (and her band) to announce a special show at the first direct arena in July 2018. James Taylor released his 17th studio album, ‘Before This World’, in 2015.  Bonnie Raitt released her 20th album , ‘Dig In Deep’ in 2016.

Dancehall legend, Grammy Award winner and much loved hit maker extraordinaire Sean Paul will be appearing, one night only, at First Direct Arena Leeds on 16th August 2018 Sean Paul is without doubt one of the most instantly recognisable voices in music and he   has continued his remarkable strike rate over the last year with a string of hits including Cheap Thrills: 76 Million Streams On Spotify + over 1.3m Sales on iTunes, Cheap Thrills – No. 1 on the US Chart.

WALKING WITH DINOSAURS - The Arena Spectacular, is back for the last time! The dazzling £20 million production has been seen by over 9 million people in more than 250 counties around the world. Watch them walk, hear them roar, and see their fight for survival and supremacy depicted in almost cinematic realism. It’s the must-see live arena experience for audiences of all ages, so book your tickets now... before they become extinct! 

Paw Patrol Live! returns to the first direct arena in August 2018. In PAW Patrol Live! “The Great Pirate Adventure,” Mayor Goodway is getting everything shipshape for a big Pirate Day celebration in Adventure Bay. However, when Cap’n Turbot falls into a dark and mysterious cavern, it’s PAW Patrol to the rescue! Chase, Marshall, Rubble, Skye, Rocky and Zuma save Cap'n Turbot and discover a secret pirate treasure map that leads them on an epic adventure.

The League of Gentlemen will return to the stage in 2018 for their first UK tour in over 12 years with their brand new live show ‘The League of Gentlemen Live Again!’. Visting the first direct arena in September 2018, the tour will see BAFTA Award winning comedy legends Reece Shearsmith, Steve Pemberton, Mark Gatiss and Jeremy Dyson bring their dark and unhinged fictional village of Royston Vasey to theatres and arenas across the country.

Due to overwhelming demand, GRAMMY®, TONY®, and EMMY® Award-winning pop superstar Barry Manilow has announced a return to the first direct arena in Septermber 2018. Manilow is known for his classic hits such as ‘Mandy’, ‘Copacabana’, ‘Can’t Smile Without You’, ‘Could It Be Magic’, and many more.With worldwide record sales exceeding 85 million, Barry Manilow is ranked as the top Adult Contemporary chart artist of all time with over 50 Top 40 hits. Special guests Collabro will joining Barry Manilow in Leeds.

Arijit Singh is a globally celebrated artiste, his music prowess extends to being a Singer, Music Producer and Live Performer. Cited as one of the most talented singers in India, his songs are considered iconic worldwide. In the extremely competitive and ever-changing world of Bollywood he continues to stand at the apex with his consistently successful songs which now have a distinct vibe of their own. His voice is soothing, soulful and melodious with his singing abilities unmatched.
 

The League of Gentlemen will return to the stage in 2018 for their first UK tour in over 12 years with their brand new live show ‘The League of Gentlemen Live Again!’. Visting the first direct arena in September 2018, the tour will see BAFTA Award winning comedy legends Reece Shearsmith, Steve Pemberton, Mark Gatiss and Jeremy Dyson bring their dark and unhinged fictional village of Royston Vasey to theatres and arenas across the country.

Cirque du Soleil is delighted to announce a brand-new UK arena tour with OVO. Next summer OVO, a celebration of nature and co-existence will bring its fun-filled production for the whole family to arenas around the country. Having thrilled more than 5 million people worldwide since the show premiered in Montreal in 2009 as a Big Top show, OVO embarks on a journey, offering the same captivating production as the Big Top performances, but on a larger scale now

Hacienda Classical with Manchester Camerata, the city’s experimental orchestra, will be returning with a new set and soundtrack next year for shows that see the concert return to first direct Arena in September 2018. Hacienda Classical which sees the clubs original DJ partnership, Graeme Park and Mike Pickering reinterpret seminal dance classics with the orchestra, conductor  Tim Crooks has received rave reviews since its first Bridgewater Hall concerts only 20 months ago. In less than two years since it has performed 25 concerts playing to audiences totalling around 150,000 in total.

Jason Derulo’s European tour has been rescheduled to September 2018 as he finalises plan for his new album coming late summer. The new date will now take place on Sunday 30th September. Existing tickets will be valid for the rescheduled show. Jason Derulo is an American singer, songwriter, and dancer. Since the start of his solo recording career in 2009, Derulo has sold over 30 million singles and has achieved eleven Platinum singles, including "Wiggle", "Talk Dirty", "In My Head", and "Whatcha Say". 

Please click here for the full statement from Peter Kay 

 Kylie Minogue, currently on a high with her brand new track 'Dancing', will bring her extraordinary creativity as a live performer to the first direct arena in 2018. Kylie, who always raises the bar with her live performances, promises a brand new extravaganza for this production which will be centred around her new album 'Golden', although of course her amazing back catalogue will be embraced.

EARLY DOORS, Britain’s best loved pub sitcom is to tour the country this year for the very first time. The live incarnation of the BBC TV favourite. Commissioned by leading West End producer Philip McIntyre to adapt their award winning television series for the stage, Craig Cash and Phil Mealey have written a brand new story featuring the same hilarious characters from the TV show.

World-renowned Grammy, Emmy and Golden Globe winner Whoopi Goldberg announces she will perform a very special show at the first direct arena in October. Whoopi will perform an evening of unique observations on current events and a wide variety of topics that are on her mind, followed by a question and answer session with the audience in the UK. Stand Up and TV Star Gina Yashere will be the special guest at the shows.

Jeff Lynne's ELO makes a triumphant return to the first direct arena in 2018. More popular than ever, Jeff Lynne’s ELO have always been known for their epic live shows and with a distinct style that seamlessly and innovatively blends rock, pop and classical, ELO has had twenty six UK Top 40 singles, making Lynne's sweeping productions some of the most recognisable music of the last forty years and helping sell over 50 million records worldwide. 

Following the huge success of his Channel 4 show, Professor Noel Fitzpatrick, The Supervet, is delighted to be bringing his first ever live stage show Welcome to My World to major arenas and theatres across the UK & Ireland next year.This groundbreaking new show - a must for all animal lovers and fans of the TV show alike - will see Noel enlighten audiences with his incredible life story and explain how he became The Supervet we know and love. 

Talking Heads icon David Byrne has announced a date at the first direct arena in October 2018 and will be performing songs from his critically acclaimed album American Utopia, as well as classics from his solo career and his days with Talking Heads.  A twelve-piece band will also join Byrne on stage for an Annie-B Parson choreographed concert that he has called  “The most ambitious show I’ve done since the shows that were filmed for Stop Making Sense.”

The legendary Joanna Lumley will embark on her first ever live tour, IT’S ALL ABOUT ME, in autumn 2018. Joanna will take audiences through her hilarious and interesting adventures from her incredible career spanning more than four decades, recounting some never heard before stories. She will also be joined on stage by friend and producer Clive Tulloh, who will put to Joanna questions from the audience that they’ve always wanted to ask, making the show a unique and hilarious night to remember.

WWE have announced that its unique brand of action packed entertainment is returning to the first direct arena in November 2018. Fans will be able to see all their favorite WWE Superstars live in action all under one roof. Don’t miss out; Get your ticket to an incredible night of action packed entertaining experience! 

Florence + the Machine have announced details of their first direct arena show as part of the ‘High As Hope Tour'.This follows the news of Florence + the Machine’s hugely-anticipated new album, ‘High As Hope’, which will be released on June 29th on Virgin EMI. The record was officially launched with the striking video for first single ‘Hunger'.

Two years ago Rick Astley returned with an album that surprised everyone, even himself. His number 1 album ‘50’ sold over 300,000 copies and was one of the biggest selling albums of 2016. What was even more incredible was that Rick wrote, produced and played every instrument on that comeback disc. After selling over 100,000 tickets on his 2017 tour, Rick and his band play the first direct arena in 2018 joined by very special guest Gabrielle.

Motown legends The Four Tops and The Temptations announce a UK arena tour in November 2018.   They will be joined by special guests, yet to be announced.These two bands are true icons and epitomise the Motown sound that shook the world in the 60s and continues to delight audiences, old and new. The Four Tops have a vast catalogue of hits, with 27 UK top 40 singles and The Temptations were the first Motown band to win a Grammy Award – and have won 3 in total.

Since their inception in 1981 Culture Club have sold more than 50 million records worldwide, with a stream of classic hits including; ‘Do You Really Want to Hurt Me’, ‘Karma Chameleon’, ‘Church Of The Poison Mind’, ‘Victims’, ‘It’s A Miracle’ and ‘The War Song’ The group is fronted by singer/songwriter Boy George, universally recognized as one of music's most iconic artists. . The Life Tour: starring Boy George & Culture Club will also feature 80’s pop sweetheart Belinda Carlisle and new wave, synth pop artist  Thompson Twins’ Tom Bailey

Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons have sold over 100 million records worldwide and defined the sound of an era with classic hits like: Walk Like A Man, Sherry, Can’t Take My Eyes Off You, Rag Doll, Big Girls Don’t Cry and many more. Frankie Valli, who came to fame in 1962 as the lead singer of The Four Seasons, is hotter than ever in the 21st century. Thanks to the volcanic success of the Tony-winning musical Jersey Boys which chronicles the life and times of Frankie and his legendary group. 

He’s back! It’s been a busy few years for Jason since his last smash-hit stand up show but fans of his Absolute Radio show will know this nationally acclaimed comedian hasn’t changed a bit. 'Muddle Class' promises to feature a wealth of new material about Jason growing up ‘working class’ then finding, over the years, that part of him has become ‘middle class’ - causing much confusion!   Delivered with Jason’s amiable charm and captivating wit, this is a show not to be missed.

Jeff Wayne’s Musical Version of The War of The Worlds – Alive on Stage returns to UK arenas next year to celebrate its 40th ANNIVERSARY, at the Leeds First Direct Arena. Conducted by Jeff Wayne, with the 9-piece Black Smoke Band and 36-piece ULLAdubULLA Strings, the most ambitious production yet will ‘break through the fourth wall’ bringing action closer to the audience for a most captivating and immersive, musical experience, including the iconic 3-tonne 35-foot tall Martian Fighting Machine firing real flames. Full cast announced soon!

“THE HILLS ARE ALIVE WITH THE SOUND OF MADNESS!!” Britain’s favourite pop band Madness will be visting the first direct arena December and will be joined by special guests The Fratellis. The Sound of Madness is a combination of people from North London that got together in the mid to late ‘70s and came up with a cacophony of music, noise, clothes, dressing up and having fun. 

Since the release of the first Star Wars movie nearly 40 years ago, the Star Wars saga has had a seismic impact on both cinema and culture. Fans will be now able to experience the scope and grandeur of these beloved Star Wars films in a live symphonic concert experience, as the Star Wars: Film Concert Series debuts with A New Hope. Experience Star Wars: A New Hope with a live symphonic orchestra in a way you have never been able to before. 

Christmas has indeed come early, global superstar, vocal phenomenon and international icon Mariah Carey announces the return of the hugely successful and critically allaciamed All I Want For Christmas Is You Tour to the first direct arena this December. A breathtaking performance dovetailing Mariah Carey’s most celebrated and adored festive anthems and classic catalogue, All I Want For Christmas Is You Tour is the perfect gift for Christmas.  

BLACK STONE CHERRY are excited to announce a date at the first direct arena this December. The Kentucky boys tell us, "As many people know, the UK holds a special place in the hearts of BSC.  The culture, the history, the music, and most importantly THE FANS!  We absolutely cannot wait to come back to what we consider our second home this winter to play some music for y’all! Joining us on this tour are our buddies in The Cadillac Three and Monster Truck.  So, needless to say it’s gonna be a southern fried, rock n' roll revival!  See ya soon!" 

Musical master of ceremonies Jools Holland and his acclaimed Rhythm & Blues Orchestra have announced their annual musical excursion. Soft Cell frontman Marc Almond will be accompanying Jools for the 2018 autumn/winter UK tour as a special guest. Also performing with Jools will be the supremely talented vocalists Ruby Turner and Louise Marshall as well as original Squeeze member Gilson Lavis on drums with the Rhythm & Blues Orchestra.

This Christmas will see J.M. Barrie’s magical story of Peter Pan brought to life in gigantic proportions on some of the biggest stages in the country. Starring Martin Kemp and Milton Jones, Peter Pan – The Arena Adventure will play Leeds' first direct arena between 21-23 December .Reprising his role as the ultimate baddie Captain Hook is acclaimed actor and Spandau Ballet star Martin Kemp. Playing Hook’s simple-minded right-hand man Mr Smee,  the pun-tastic hilarious comedian and star of BBC Two’s Mock The Week, Milton Jones.

Frank Turner & The Sleeping Souls have announced they will be visiting the first direct arena in support of his upcoming seventh album Be More Kind. Be More Kind represents a thematic and sonic line in the sand for 36-year-old Turner. “I wanted to try and get out of my comfort zone and do something different,” he says. After the stripped-down, live-sounding previous album Positive Songs…, Turner wanted to try a new approach.

Snow Patrol have announced they will be visiting the first direct arena for the first time in January 2019. Since their 1998 debut, Songs for Polarbears, Snow Patrol have racked up an impressive number of critical and commercial accolades, including 15 million global album sales, 1+ billion global track streams, five UK Platinum Albums, and are Grammy, BRIT Award and Mercury Music Prize nominated.

After six UK #1 singles, five UK #1 albums and 25 years together, the iconic Boyzone will release their final album ‘Thank You & Goodnight’ on November 16th. They’ve also announced details of their 25th anniversary and farewell UK and Ireland arena tour which includes a date at the first direct arena on Friday 1st February 2019. 

TICKETS GO ON SALE AT 9AM ON FRIDAY 22ND JUNE 2018

After a triumphant concert at the Royal Albert Hall last month, Tears For Fears – are more popular than ever! The band have sold an astronomical 30 million albums worldwide, performed to countless sold out audiences, and won various awards, and are one of the most influential bands to have come out of the UK. With a catalogue of of huge hits, including classics such as “Everybody Wants To Rule The World,” “Shout,” “Mad World,” “Head Over Heels,” “Woman In Chains,” these shows are not to be missed!

Taking audiences to the edge of our current understanding about the origin and evolution of our Solar System and the Universe, Professor Brian Cox Live 2019 offers a fascinating insight into the workings of nature at the most fundamental level. Whether an avid science reader or a total novice, Professor Cox makes challenging ideas accessible to all, exploring the vast, possibly infinite universe and our place within it from earth to the edges of the cosmos. Brian will once again be joined by co-host of The Infinite Monkey Cage and award-winning comedian Robin Ince to oversee an audience Q&A.

Following the incredible success of the BAFTA award-winning BBC One television series Blue Planet II, presented by Sir David Attenborough, BBC Studios, and FKP Scorpio ,  will bring the wonders and mysteries of the planet’s oceans and wildlife to the first direct arena stage. Blue Planet II – Live In Concert – will present a selection of stunning visuals from the television series, highlighting the incredible natural wonders of our blue planet in breath-taking detail, projected on a state of the art 200 square metre 4K Ultra HD LED screen, the concert will be performed live by a full symphony orchestra.

Supporting the release of his self-titled third album, multi-platinum and chart-topping singer/songwriter Shawn Mendes will hit the road in 2019 on a global arena tour.  “Shawn Mendes: The Tour” will mark his third global headline tour, following his sold out 2017 arena trek, and will take in 56 dates spanning across North America, the UK and Europe.  Tickets on sale now!

Please click here for the full statement from Peter Kay

Direct from BBC One’s award-winning prime time TV show Strictly Come Dancing, the Professionals will take to the stage at first direct arena! Audiences will enjoy the incredible talent of these world-class dancers as they perform exquisitely choreographed Ballroom and Latin routines with all the sequins, sparkle and stunning production values we have come to know and love!

Bill Bailey returns to the first direct arena after a triumphant 2018 performance. is a compendium of travellers’ tales and the general shenanigans of twenty years as a travelling comedian. With musical virtuosity, surreal tangents and trademark intelligence, Bill Bailey tackles politics, philosophy and the pursuit of happiness. Plus, he fashions a symphony from a ringtone, tells the real story of Old MacDonald and re-imagines the Stars and Stripes. Two decades of touring larks from a comic described by The Telegraph as “the brainiest comic of his generation.”

Direct from London's West End, this is the world’s favourite George Michael tribute show.This show will take you on a musical journey from the moving Jesus To A Child, to the celebration of Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me, to everyone’s favourites I’m Your Man and Wake Me Up. Join us as we present our respectful tribute to one of the greatest musicians of all time with our stunning stage show that’s taking the globe by storm.Relive the passion, the flare and the unique sensitivity of George Michael with Fastlove!
 

Music fans are invited to the biggest party of the year as the unstoppable Magic of Motown show steams into town! Seen by over a million people, With timeless music of Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, The Temptations, The Supremes, The Four Tops, Jackson 5, Smokey Robinson and more. This breath-taking concert spectacular takes you on a musical journey through all your favourite songs, including: Ain’t No Mountain, Signed Sealed Delivered, Dancing In The Streets, My Cherie Amor, Heatwave and many more