Event Calendar

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Member, Neil Diamond will be extending his 50th anniversary tour to the first direct arena on the 5th October 2017, Neil Diamond is more than just a music icon. His singular artistry and talent has left an indelible mark on American culture and has helped shape the sound of popular music for five decades. We ask that you keep personal belongings to a minimum and only bring your essentials. Please do not bring any backpacks or large bags, as these will not be allowed into the arena. More information regarding our security policy is here

American comedy sensations, The Impractical Jokers will bring their brand-new show to our shores this October. New York based comedy troupe The Tenderloins have built a huge live audience in the USA. After years of performing live improv and sketch comedy shows, The Tenderloins graduated to the web, captivating a new found audience of millions with their internet sketches before taking their hidden camera pranks to the small screen. 16+ Suggested (Parental Discretion Advised)

The Australian Pink Floyd return to the first direct arena with their stunning new tour, Best Side of The Moon. The Australian Pink Floyd boast having the biggest and most spectacular Pink Floyd show on the planet and they’re not wrong! Having sold over four million tickets across 35 countries, they are an act not to be missed! Come to the first direct arena to see the Pink Floyd tribute act that are so good that David Gilmour wanted to book them for his own birthday party!

Little Mix, the biggest girl band in the world, bring their brilliant new Glory Days Tour to the first direct arena. Touring in support of their amazing new album Glory Days, the Shout Out to My Ex pop Queens will provide an awesome nights entertainment at the first direct arena. Growing better and bolder with each new album, things are about to go properly interstellar, come join them at the first direct arena. Matinee and Evening shows available.

Legends Live is coming to the first direct arena this October with very special guests Suzi Quatro, David Essex, Hot Chocolate and Merrill, Jay and Jimmy in the Osmonds. Tickets for the Sunday 15th October concert are on sale now, priced £45.00 (booking & venue facility fees apply).

Returning to the first direct Arena on Thursday 19th October, the evening will again be a star-studded event, hosted by Radio 1 DJ Scott Mills, with an increased number of awards and the opportunity for members of the public to be among the audience.

Josh Warrington will face undefeated Dane Dennis Ceylan in a mandated Final Eliminator for the IBF Featherweight World title at the first direct Arena in Leeds on Saturday 21st October. Former European Champion Ceylan (18-0-2, 8 KOs) has his sights firmly set on World title honours but must overcome his toughest career challenge to date in the undefeated Warrington. Please note no sporting apparel will be allowed into the venue.

Multi-platinum-selling artist J. Cole is hittign the road for a 57-city world tour, visiting the first direct arena on October 22nd 2017 supported by J.I.D, ARI LENNOX & EARTHGANG
The North Carolina-bred Cole is touring in support of his fourth album, the Platinum-certified 4 Your Eyez Only, which debuted at No. 1 on the BillboardTop 200 chart in December. Each of its ten tracks has notched a place on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. 

Emeli Sandé, brings her brand new album Long Live the Angels, to the first direct arena as part of her Long Live The Angels tour.  With her phenomenal voice, transfixing stage presence and brilliant tunes it promises to be a special evening! Book now for an amazing evening with Emeli Sandé. Calum Scott has been chosen as Emeli Sandé’s main support. The breakout U.K. artist, singer and songwriter’s poignant version of Robyn’s “Dancing On My Own” has become a global sensation selling over 4M copies worldwide.

Comedy superstar John Bishop returns to the first direct arena this year for his long awaited return to stand-up comedy with his brand new live show Winging It. Performing in his own inimitable style, expect hilarity, side-splitting laughs and John’s trademark wry commentary. After having sellout tours in 2011, 2012 and his last tour, Supersonic, being watched by more than 500,000 people, this is an evening not to be missed with one of the UK’s best comedians. 

This year’s prestigious White Rose Awards will be held on the 30th October at first direct arena in Leeds. This year the awards get the Michelin Star treatment, as Welcome to Yorkshire teams up with top Yorkshire chef and restaurant owner Simon Gueller. The night will begin with an exclusive drinks reception before guests are treated to a host of amazing entertainment; as the ceremony celebrates the county's thriving tourism industry and all of the fantastic people that contribute to it. Tickets are available now!

WWE Live returns to the first direct arena this November! See your favourite WWE Superstars live in action including AJ Styles, Shinsuke Nakamura, Baron Corbin, Kevin Owens, Jinder Mahal w/The Singh Brothers, New Day, The Usos, Randy Orton, Rusev, Bobby Roode, Dolph Ziggler, Naomi, Charlotte & Becky Lynch, Natalya, Carmella and Tamina w/ Lana and James Ellsworth, Sami Zayn, Mike Kanellis w/ Maria Kanellis, The Ascension, Luke Harper And many more!* 

*Lineup subject to change 

Heavy metal legend, master of darkness and lord of the shadows, Alice Cooper, brings his brilliant new tour, Spend the Night With Alice Cooper, his first in five years, to the first direct arena. Promising “more gore, more fun”, all the hits and new tunes, it promises to be an evening of insanity with the heavy metal master. Book now to avoid missing out on a night with one of the most unique and theatrical recording artists ever. 

Little Mix, the biggest girl band in the world, bring their brilliant new Glory Days Tour to the first direct arena. Touring in support of their amazing new album Glory Days, the Shout Out to My Ex pop Queens will provide an awesome nights entertainment at the first direct arena. Growing better and bolder with each new album, things are about to go properly interstellar, come join them at the first direct arena.

It has been an extraordinary 6 months for James Arthur. After returning with his single Say You Won’t Let Go, James has gone on to achieve multiple #1s, a Platinum selling album, sold out tours and two BRIT’s Nominations. Now he returns with the announcement of his first arena tour, kicking off at Leeds first direct arena on the 16th November 2017.

Rock duo Royal Blood announce their biggest tour to date ahead of the release of their new album ‘How Did We Get So Dark?’, including a date at first direct Arena! Royal Blood are an English rock duo formed in Brighton in 2013. The band's sound is reminiscent of and rooted in modern blues rock, hard rock, garage rock and psychedelic rock.

Britain’s very own Twitter all-star is back… James Blunt will release his fifth studio album, ‘The Afterlove’ on March 24. The Afterlove Tour follows his extensive Moon Landing Tour, which saw him perform over 140 shows across the world over the course of twelve months. James Blunt brings the 'Afterlove' tour to first direct Arena Leeds, Saturday 18 November 2017

The Killers have announced a major UK and Ireland tour including a date at the first direct arena. The tour will follow the release of the band’s upcoming fifth album, Wonderful Wonderful, the album is shaping up to be the band’s most sonically forward-thinking record yet; an LP bursting with all of the blazing choruses and arena-filling anthems that make The Killers one of the world’s biggest and most beloved rock bands. 

Steps return for 2017 with a huge first direct arena date, plus a brand-new single and album, marking their twentieth anniversary. The band have scored fourteen consecutive top 5 singles, sold over 20 million records and reached Number One with three albums and three singles. With special guests the Vengaboys this is a blast from the past not to miss! 

Seminal indie rockers The Kooks announce a date at the first direct arena. Demand for The Kooks is higher than it’s ever been, with a whole new generation of music lovers discovering their music. During the live shows, fans will be given the chance to see performances of classic singles and b-sides, as well as brand new music that the band have been dedicating time to in the studio the past few months, teasing what’s to come in the next year. Tickets are on sale now!

Following the sellout British arena tour last year and a No.1 multi-platinum album, Elvis returns to the first direct arena for a live concert experience like no other. Featuring a very special personal appearance by Priscilla Presley, the shows will once again give fans a chance that many have never had before – to experience the man who changed the course of popular music. Up close live on screen, the biggest selling solo artist in history. 

Stone Sour have announced a date at the first direct arena this winter. Corey Taylor, Josh Rand, Roy Mayorga, Johny Chow and Christian Martucci will be supported by very special guests The Pretty Reckless on their visit to Leeds.

Ricky Gervais will be performing at the first direct Arena on Friday 1st December 2017 following on from a thirteen-night sold out run at London’s Eventim Apollo, Hammersmith in October. 2017 marks the British comic’s return to his first love of stand-up comedy on an international stage. The creator and star of The Office, Extras & Derek, Ricky Gervais, has won three Golden Globes, two Primetime Emmy Awards and seven BAFTA’. His 2007 stand-up show ‘Fame’ was the fastest selling UK stand-up show in history, with 100,000 tickets for the London dates selling out in just 9 minutes!

Cars fly, trees fight back, and monsters are on the loose in Harry’s second year at Hogwarts™ School of Witchcraft and Wizardry! This concert features the film Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets™ in high-definition, on a giant screen, while a live orchestra performs John Williams’ unforgettable score. Relive every magical moment as the music brings life to a story that has bewitched the world. On sale now!

Liam Gallagher makes his debut at the first direct arena in Decemeber 2017. Representing his first tour following the October 6th release of his debut solo album ‘As You Were’, the announcement comes as Liam is back at the height of his powers. His return has been nothing short of spectacular, from emotive scenes in Manchester to huge sing-a-longs at Glastonbury, with three new tracks – ‘Wall of Glass’, ‘Chinatown’ and ‘For What It’s Worth’ are already establishing themselves as towering anthems. 

Queen + Adam Lambert return to Europe later this year for a date at the first direct arena, the tour will showcase a spectacular new stage production and a set list, which the band hints will provide some surprises. These shows will mark the band’s first appearance in Leeds in almost three years, having last performed here in January 2015 in front of a sold out crowd. I Want It All VIP: £295.  Ultimate On Stage Experience: £900.  More information on VIP packages can be found here

Kasabian return to the first direct arena in 2017. Since releasing their glorious number one album ‘For Crying Out Loud’, Kasabian have been making festival history everywhere they’ve played this summer throughout Europe effortlessly proving why they are one of the world’s very best live acts every time they step onstage. Armed with a back catalogue brimming with classic singles and with a history of headlining the world’s biggest stages and festivals, these shows promise to be THE live highlight of the year. 

Following the stunning success of their Platinum selling album ‘Together’ and 29 sold out shows across the UK in 2016, Michael Ball and Alfie Boe are returning to the first direct arena on Friday 8th December 2017. Two of the greatest voices in the world, united once more on the stage of the first direct arena for a night of incredible entertainment and show-stopping tunes. Book now to avoid missing out on one of the most joyous nights of the year.

Birmingham’s world-famous reggae stars UB40 are coming to the first direct arena on the 10th of December! Featuring UB40’s five founding members Robin Campbell, Brian Travers, Jimmy Brown, Earl Falconer and Norman Hassan, and long-time members Duncan Campbell, Martin Meredith, Lawrence Parry and Tony Mullings, the ‘Cities and Towns Tour’ promises to be a night of unstoppable reggae rumble! Book now to bask in reggae brilliance. Maxi Jazz & The E-Type Boys will be supporting UB40

Pete Tong is bringing his unique union of classical music and iconic dance tracks to the first direct arena. With Ibiza classics performed and reimagined by the 65 piece heritage orchestra, conducted by Jules Buckley, it is a night of anthems not to be missed.

Tickets on Sale Now! 

International superstar André Rieu announces a return to the first direct arena in 2017.André Rieu is quite simply a musical phenomenon like no other,  Along with his 60-piece Johann Strauss Orchestra (the largest private orchestra in the world), André has created a global revival in waltz music, staging spectacular extravaganzas which are second to none. Having received over 500 Platinum Awards, three Classical Brit Awards for “Album of the Year” and billions of Youtube views, André is one of the biggest solo male touring artists in the world.

America's preeminent chart-topping hard rock band Five Finger Death Punch have announced a debut show at the first direct arena in Leeds. What promises to be the biggest and most exciting arena rock tour of 2017. Five Finger Death Punch will be joined on their tour by In Flames and Of Mice & Men. 

Musical virtuoso Jools Holland and his well-renowned Rhythm & Blues Orchestra have announced a date at the first direct arena for their upcoming 2017 Autumn/Winter UK tour. With a huge collection of boogie-woogie tracks from multiple decades, a night at one of the UK’s most popular tours is for sure a memorable one! With Special Guests - Jose Feliciano, Ruby Turner, Louise Marshall and Beth Rowley.

Let’s Have a Rock n’ Roll Party is the ultimate 50’s and 60’s extravaganza and visits the first direct arena on the 27th December 2017.The world’s finest collection of tribute artists gather for the biggest Christmas party of 2017. Elvis, Bill Haley and The Comets, Buddy Holly, Ray Charles and Eddie Cochran are represented in this incredible family night out.Combined for the first time ever this stellar collection promises a real night to remember and the ideal Christmas gift for any music fan in your family. More info here

Grammy and Emmy Award-winning comedian, actor, director, writer and producer, Chris Rock, announced a visit to the first direct arena as part of The Total Blackout Tour 2018 and marks the acclimated comedian’s first U.K. tour in ten years visiting Leeds on Sunday 14th January 2017. Tickets are on sale now!

The UK’s best gymnastics teams are set to gather at the first direct arena once again for the annual Leeds GymFest hosted by Leeds Gymnastics Club. Teams from across the country; ranging from pre-school children to British team members and Olympians, will showcase and display their strength, flexibility and choreography in this exhibition of British gymnastic talent and creativity. A fun day out for all.

The Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour is back to keep you dancing into 2018! Pure dancing pleasure awaits as this supersized Strictly Live extravaganza comes to the first direct arena in January. Celebrating all that we love about the smash hit BBC1 TV series, the Strictly Live Tour delivers escapist entertainment on a breathtaking scale. There is no better way to put the wow factor into the winter months, so book your tickets now and keeeeeeeep dancing!  

The Script are returning to the first direct arena in 2018. They are one of the world’s most successful bands and have sold over 29 million records. The Irish three-piece have scored x3 multi-platinum albums, all of which were #1 in the UK. The Script have also picked up a huge following in the USA where they have x4 platinum selling singles under their belt as well as being one of the biggest live bands, having sold over 1.4 million tickets across 203 headline shows.

The greatest story ever told comes spectacularly to life in this brand new musical. Join us on an epic and inspirational journey and experience state of the art digital technology, innovative staging, and stunning choreography, with a cast of more than 30 in this greatly anticipated event directed by one of the UK’s finest directors.Telling the story of Adam and Eve, Heaven on Earth comes to the first direct arena next February. 

Paul Weller returns to first direct arena next year to celebrate the 40th anniversary of his first album release ‘In The City’ and for his 13th album release ‘A Kind Revolution’. 2017 marks the 40th anniversary of Paul Weller’s first album, 'In The City', which he released with The Jam in May 1977.For most artists such a landmark would be greeted with extensive retrospective celebrations: lavish reissues and all that jazz. But Paul Weller is not like most artists, instead releasing a new studio album, because releasing new albums is what Paul Weller does. 

Paloma Faith returns to the first direct arena in March 2018. Paloma Faith is an English singer, songwriter and actress, known for her retro and eccentric style. Besides receiving four Brit Award nominations, winning British Female Solo Artist in 2015, she has also made feature film appearances in The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus, Dread and the 2007 remake of St Trinian's. One of only two British female artists this decade to have their last three albums go double platinum in the UK – will release her long-awaited fourth album, ‘The Architect’, on November 17.

Elbow are set to return to the first direct arena in 2018. Recognised as one of the UK’s biggest and most important bands, elbow have a well-deserved reputation for delivering arena shows that combine scale with intimacy to devastating effect. The dates extend the ‘Little Fictions’ tour following a run of sold out theatre shows in March 2017. Support for the tour will be coming from very special guest John Grant and his band.

One of Britain’s best live bands Stereophonics will return to the first direct arena  in February 2018 following the release their new album ‘Scream Above The Sounds’. As one of Britain’s best live bands Stereophonics have been touring and performing to sell-out crowds across the globe. This summer alone they headlined Kendal Calling, Y Not Festival and Victorious Festival plus took to the stage at BBC 2 Live In Hyde Park last weekend.  Tickets go onsale 09:00am, Friday 22 September 

Tony Denton Promotions brings the cream of the decade together for the very first time for this unique arena tour, entitled ’40 Years Of Disco’.  Seven of the biggest and legendary disco acts appear on one stage at these amazing live concerts in March 2018 - Sister Sledge, Tavares, Rose Royce, Boney M, The Real Thing, Odyssey & George McCrae. The ‘40 Years of Disco’ show is a high-energy hits only live extravaganza.

Making his first direct arena debut American superstar Jason Derulo visits us in March 2018. 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". 

5 Star Wrestling Tournament show has been rescheduled to Wednesday 29th March 2018. 5 Star Wrestling said 'We have decided to completely reschedule the entire 5 Star Wrestling tournament. We know this will be disappointing to many fans as it means we will not be running any further shows in 2017 but we assure you, this is not a decision we have taken lightly and it is a move that will greatly improve the shows we host going forward. Your tickets are automatically valid for the new date but are welcome to a full refund at your point of purchase.' 

Europe’s Strongest Man, apart of the Giants Live: World’s Strongest  Man Arena Tour, returns to Yorkshire for its 6th year in a row. This TV Classic has astonished Xmas audiences for 40 years, but now it's a must-see LIVE event in all its car lifting, shirt-ripping, World-Record-breaking magnificence. This contest boasts the largest purse and best line-up of men ever assembled in an Arena. True giants like 31-stone, World's Strongest Man from Stoke-on-Trent, Eddie 'The Beast' Hall are challenging for the crown. 

Grammy Award-winning  jazz/soul singing sensation Gregory Porter, has had a phenomenal year and is proud to announce a date at the first direct arena in 2018. Gregory Porter, continues to perform to sell out audiences around the world and has achieved international recognition and acclaim, with both his Grammy winning selling albums Liquid Spirit and Take Me To The Alley.

Britain’s biggest comedian Michael McIntyre is set to return to the first direct arena with his eagerly awaited new tour. After two sold out shows here in 2015 tickets for Michael McIntyre's return are going to be in some demand. Michael currently presents his own television show Michael McIntyre's Big Show on BBC1. The last series averaged over 6.5 million viewers and recently received two BAFTA nominations.

The world famous Harlem Globetrotters, featuring some of the most electrifying athletes on the planet, will bring their spectacular show to the first direct arena during their 2018 World Tour. As the world-famous Harlem Globetrotters look toward the 92nd season of entertaining fans 2017 is not over yet.  Proving once again to be a busy year for the Globetrotters their 2017 World Tour sees them play in over 250 North American markets and 30 countries worldwide, and has the iconic team putting smiles on people’s faces across the world. 

Bill Bailey returns to the first direct arena after a triumphant 2016 performance. Larks in Transit is a compendium of travelers’ 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 McDonald, and a re-imagines the Stars and Stripes. Tickets for our Comedy Package can be found here