Tixdaq.com Ticket News » Carling Weekend

Pixies to perform at Isle of Wight Festival

Warren Moore — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0000

It has been announced that the Pixies will play this year’s Isle Of Wight Festival. The hugely popular event is set to take place between 12 & 14 at Seaclose Park.

The Pixies will be kicking off the festival with a rare appearance having only performed intermittently since their 2005 headline shows at Reading and Leeds festivals. Meanwhile Neil Young will bring the festival to a close on the Sunday (June 14). Tickets for the 2009 Isle of Wight Festival are still available from £160.

Other acts including The Prodigy, Basement Jaxx, Stereophonics and Razorlight are among the band’s performing at this year’s Isle Of Wight Festival.

As well as having confirmed an appearance at this years Isle of Wight festival and two other live dates in the UK, Neil Young will perform at the Nottingham Trent FM Arena on June 23 Aberdeen Exhibition Centre the following day (June 24), London’s Had Rock Calling (June 27) and Glastonbury Festival (June 28). Neil Young tickets are still available from £50.

Other acts on the 2009 Isle of Wight line up are also on tour in the UK this year. Stereophonics play a one off special gig at the Royal Albert Hall as part of the 2009 Teenage Cancer Trust campaign. Stereophonics tickets are available from £49. The Prodigy and Basement Jaxx both kick off their UK tour in April and tickets are still available. Prodigy tickets start at £25 and tickets to see Basement Jaxx are available from £20. Razorlight embark on a four night tour in May which includeds performances at Buxton Opera House (May 4), Leamington Spa Assembly (May 5), London O2 Arena (May 7) and Manchester Evening News Arena (May 9). Razorlight tickets are available from £26.

Michael Jackson extends O2 residency into 2010

Warren Moore — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Promoters AEG have confirmed that King of Pop Michael Jackson is to extend his residency at London’s O2 Arena beyond it’s initial 30 nights and into January of 2010.

Fans will now have the opportunity to see the singer perform across seven extra concerts beginning January 7th. The number of Michael Jackson concerts at London’s O2 Arena may rise further still as the unprecedented demand for tickets shows no sign of slowing.

The announcement follows the dramatic sell out of the entire allocation of Michael Jackson presale tickets yesterday afternoon (March 11). The release of tickets for the initial 30 date residency brought an unprecedented number of Michael Jackson fans to the online box office attempting to secure their Michael Jackson tickets for the forthcoming This Is It tour.

The presale release however did not run as smoothly as planned as websites were unable to support the demand and crashed, leaving thousands of fans empty-handed. Fans who had registered for the O2 presale but experienced ‘frustrating delays’ today received an apology from promoters AEG.

While many genuine Michael Jackson fans were forced to go without Michael Jackson tickets, some fans decided to list their Michael Jackson tickets on the resale market no sooner had they bought them. Michael Jackson tickets are currently being sold for as much as £300 each – more than four times value. In some cases, top Michael Jackson tickets are being listed for as much as £1000 each

Hundreds of Michael Jackson tickets are now available to compare with prices starting at £100 .

Radiohead to play summer 2009 concerts

Warren Moore — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0000

In an interview with BBC radio’s Newsbeat Radiohead guitarist Ed O’Brien has hinted at the possibility of the Band performing a series of summer gigs.

Currently working on new material, it would seem that the band will be seeking to showcase a new album at various summer gigs. We will be doing a little bit of touring in the summer, watch this space!’ said O’Brien

The expected tour would following on from Radiohead’s 2008 In Rainbows tour which culminated in a showpiece concert at London’s Hyde park.

O’Brien was speaking at the first meeting of the Featured Artists’ Coalition in London. The newly formed music industry lobby of musicians who are attempting to establish a more prominent voice in the future of the music industry.

The FAC has claimed it will fight to ensure that the interests of artists and fans are not compromised by deals brokered between multi-national corporations which only serve corporations self interest. To this end it is asking for transparency from the industry in exchange for cooperation towards renewal and growth.

Artist joing Radiohead in the Featured Artist Coalition inlcude Billy Bragg, Boilerhouse Boys, Chrissie Hynde, Craig David, David Gilmour, Gang of Four, Iron Maiden, Jazzie B, Jools Holland, Kaiser Chiefs, Kate Nash, Klaxons, Richard Ashcroft, Robbie Williams, Sia Furler, Soul II Soul, Stephen Duffy, The Cribs, The Verve, Travis, Wet Wet Wet and White Lies.

Crosby, Stills and Nash confirm Glastonbury experience

Warren Moore — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Glastonbury organisers have confirmed that Crosby, Stills and Nash will perform this year’s festival on Saturday June 27th. Crosby, Stills and Nash will be joining currently confirmed headliners of the sold out festival Blur, Bruce Springstein, and Neil Young.

The Glastonbury 2009 festival will take place in Somerset between June 26 & 28. The event is now completely sold out, but thousands of fans are still holding out for return festival tickets.

Crosby Stills and Nash are also set to play several dates in the UK this summer appearing at, London Royal Albert Hall (July 1), Manchester MEN Arena (July 10) and Edinburgh Castle (July 11). Crosby Stills and Ash Tickets are available from £37.50

Neil Young who of course was previously a touring partner of Crosby, Stills and Nash throughout his career will also be touring the UK during the Summer. Having already confirmed an appearance at this years Isle of Wight festival and two other live dates in the UK. Neil Young will perform at the Nottingham Trent FM Arena on June 23 Aberdeen Exhibition Centre the following day (June 24) and London’s Had Rock Calling (June 27). Neil Young tickets are still available from £50.

Bruce Springsteen will be playing two huge concerts in Hyde Park at the 2009 Hard Rock Calling festival over the same weekend as Glastonbury (June 26 -28). Tickets for the 2009 Hard Rock Calling festival are still available from £65.

Meanwhile Blur have also confirmed that they will be performing at Hyde Park this summer. Blur are set to play two shows on July 2 & 3 at Hyde Park and hundreds of tickets are still available. Before heading to Hyde park, Blur are set to play the Manchester Evening News Arena on June 26. Blur tickets are available from £45.

Derren Brown returns to West End stage

Warren Moore — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0000

It has been announced that Derren Brown is set to return to the West End this summer with a new show, Derren Brown: Enigma.

The illusionist will play 30 dates from Monday June 15 to Saturday July 16 at the Adelphi Theatre London.

Derren Brown’s return to the west end stage will follow the his forthy one date UK tour which rums from April 17 to June 5.

In the same vain as the Derren Brown Mind Reader: An Evening of Wonders show which took place on the West End last year, the performances will consist of Brown’s trademark blend of psychological manipulation, illusion and suggestion.

Derren Brown is reported to have said: “Like previous shows I will absolutely push myself to the limit. The audience will be taken for a theatrical roller-coaster ride, and I hope it’s an experience that they will never forget.”

Fans wishing to catch Derren Browns latest UK tour can find tickets to compare starting from £25.

Lily Allen to headline INmusic festival

Warren Moore — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0000

It has been confirmed that Lily Allen along with heavy metal band Antrax will be headlining the Croatian INmusic festival due to take place in Zagreb this coming June (24 & 25).

The festival which takes place on the picturesque Island of Lake Jarun will be operating for its forth year. Quickly becoming one of Europe’s stand out summer festivals INmusic will entertain 20,000 fans via five open air stages.

Previous headliners of the INmusic festival include Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds,The Prodigy and Hot Chip.

UK fans of Lily Allen will have the opportunity to see her inaction over the coming weeks as she kicks off her UK tour this Saturday night at the Glasgow O2 Academy on (March 14). The Lily Allen also visits Manchester Academy (March 15), Dublin Academy (March 16), Bristol O2 Academy (March 18), Southampton Guildhall (March 19), Brighton Dome (March 20), Norwich UAE (March 22), Birmingham O2 Academy (March 23) and Leeds’s O2 Academy (March 24). The Lily Allen tour comes to a close in London where Lily Allen will play three shows at the O2 Shepherds Bush Empire (March 26, 27 & 28). Lily Allen tickets are still available from £45

Michael Jackson adds more London O2 Arena dates

Warren Moore — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Michael Jackson has added four extra dates to his London O2 Arena residency. The American star will now also play the venue on July 30th, August 1st, 3rd and 10th, in addition to his previously announced ten shows.

The announcement follows this morning’s Michael Jackson ticket presale release which saw brought an unprecedented number of Michael Jackson fans to the online box office attempting to secure their Michael Jackson tickets for the forthcoming This Is It tour.

Many Michael Jackson tickets have already appeared on the resale market following this mornings presale. Michael Jackson tickets are currently being sold for as much as £300 each. In some cases, top Michael Jackson tickets are being listed for as much as £1000 each.

Hundreds of Michael Jackson tickets are now available to compare with prices starting at £195.

The now 14 date Michael Jackson London O2 Arena residency show dates are:

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena - Wednesday, July 8

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Friday, July 10

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Sunday, July 12

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Tuesday, July 14

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Saturday, July 18

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Monday, July 20

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Wednesday, July 22

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Friday, July 24

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Sunday, July 26

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Tuesday, July 28

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Thursday, July 30th

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Saturday, August 1st

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Monday, August 2nd

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Wednesday, August 3rd

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Monday, August 10th

Killers, Franz Ferdinand, Klaxons for B’estfest

Warren Moore — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0000

It has been announced that The Killers, Franz Ferdinand,Klaxons, Moby, The Ting Tings andOrbital have all agreed to appear at this B’estfest event due to take place in Bucharest, Romania this coming July (July1 to July 5).

Also due to appear at this years event are The Ting Tings, Moby, Motorhead, Santana, and The Charlatans. While other acts include; Thievery Corporation, Patrice, Ayo,The Faint, Manowar and Holyhell.

B’estfest which represents the highlight of the Romanian music calendar will take place across two outdoor stages and one indoor Arena.

UK fans will have the opportunity to catch Orbital and Motorhead in the coming months with the tickets available from £23 and £25 respectively.

Orbital will be making a handful of appearances on this June at Brighton Dome (June 10) and O2 Academy Leeds (June 11). Orbital will set out on tour this coming September with shows at Manchester Academy (September 18 & 19), O2 Academy Newcastle (September 21) and O2 Academy Sheffield (September 23). The Orbital tour will come to an end with two dates at the O2 Academy Brixton (September 24 and 25).

Michael Jackson O2 residency now stands at 21 nights

Warren Moore — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Michael Jackson has now added eleven extra dates to his London O2 Arena residency. As as four extra dates announced this morning on July 30, August 1 , August 3rd and August 10th, The American star will now also play the venue on august 12, August17, August 24, August 26, August 28, August 30 and September 1.All of these exta dates will be in addition to his previously announced ten shows.

The announcement follows this mornings Michael Jackson ticket presale release which saw brought an unprecedented number of Michael Jackson fans to the online box office attempting to secure their Michael Jackson tickets for the forthcoming This Is It tour.

The now 21 date Michael Jackson London O2 Arena residency show dates are:

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Wednesday, July 8

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Friday, July 10

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Sunday, July 12

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Tuesday, July 14

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Saturday, July 18

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Monday, July 20

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Wednesday, July 22

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Friday, July 24

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Sunday, July 26

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Tuesday, July 28

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Thursday, July 30th

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Saturday, August 1st

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Monday, August 2nd

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Wednesday, August 3rd

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Monday, August 10th

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Wednesday, August 12th

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Monday, August 17th

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Monday, August 24th

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Wednesday, August 26th

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Friday, August 28th

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Sunday, August 30th

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Tuesday, September 1st

Hundreds of Michael Jackson tickets are now available to compare with prices starting at £195.

Michael Jackson O2 Arena dates revealed

Warren Moore — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0000

The ten dates of Michael Jackson’s London O2 Arena residency have officially been announced.

The former King of Pop will set out to regain his crown via a highly anticipated return to the stage this July with a 10-night residency at London’s O2 Arena. The residency has self titled ‘This Is It’, in reference to the American stars announcement that this tour will be his final live tour.

Michael Jackson is due to begin his London O2 Arena residency on July 8 and conclude it on July 28 although its has been rumoured that a further ten dates may be added due to the high level of demand.

Michael Jackson London O2 Arena residecy show dates are:

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Wednesday, July 8

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Friday, July 10

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Sunday, July 12

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Tuesday, July 14

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Saturday, July 18

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Monday, July 20

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Wednesday, July 22

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Friday, July 24

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Sunday, July 26

Michael Jackson London 02 Arena – Tuesday, July 28

Thousands of fans have shown their intent to see Michael Jackson live for one last time by already pre-registered to buy tickets for the shows.

Tickets are set to go on sale to the general public on Friday (March 13) while presale tickets will be offered to registered fans this Wednesday (March 11). Michael Jackson tickets will be available to compare at tixdaq.com

Cheltenham Festival gets under way despite fall in ticket sales

Warren Moore — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Despite an expected attendance of over 200,000 people, organisers of the Cheltenham festival have reported slower than normal ticket sales. Corporate package sales have fallen while the number of Irish racegoers traveling over is also expected to be slump due to the economic downturn.

It is expected however that over £300m will be gamble over the week’s 26 races. While on the race course itself, jockeys, trainers and owners will be competing for a record prize fund of £3.56m.

The four-day event which begins on today (March 10), is the highlight of the National Hunt calendar.

Tuesday’s card features the Smurfit Kappa Champion Hurdle, which has been won by Irish horses seven times in the last 10 years. Binocular, owned by JP McManus and trained by Nicky Henderson, the Festival’s most successful trainer, goes into the race as favourite.

On Wednesday, Master Minded will be hoping to make it back-to-back wins in the Seasons Holidays Queen Mother Champion Chase after his dominant victory last year.

Thursday’s feature race is the Ladbrokes World Hurdle with the Francois Doumen-trained Kasbah Bliss aiming to go one better than last year when he finished second to three-time winner Inglis Drever.

But much of the festival interest surrounds Friday’s Gold Cup, the highlight of the Jumps season. The Queen could be enjoying her first Cheltenham success with Barbers Shop, who has had a couple of good runs at the track. Denman triumphed over his stablemates Kauto Star last year but since then has had treatment for heart problems and has looked unconvincing this season. Meanwhile Kauto Star, the 2007 winner, has bounced back in style this season and on his last appearance in the King George VI Chase in December was a comfortable winner.

Tickets for this weeks Cheltenham Festival are still available from £33.

Neil Young to join Bruce Springstein at Hard Rock Calling

Warren Moore — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0000

It has been announced that Neil Young will headline London’s Hard Rock Calling weekend due to take place in Hyde Park this June.

Neil Young will be joined on day one the event (June 27) by support acts Fleet Foxes, Seasick Steve, The Pretenders and Relentless7.

The second date of Hard Rock calling is set to be headlined by Bruce Springstein, supported by the Dave Matthews Band and The Gaslight Anthem.

Further announcements of acts set to appear at Hard Rock Calling are expected to be announced in the near future.

While Bruce Springsteen’s day two event has already sold out, Neil Young tickets will go on sale this Friday (March 13)

Meanwhile Neil Young has already recently confirmed an appearance at this years isle of Wight festival and two other live dates in the UK. Neil Young will perform at the Nottingham Trent FM Arena on June 23 and Aberdeen Exhibition Centre the following day (June 24). Neil Young tickets are still available from £50.

Euro 2016 bids made by Italy, France, Turkey, Sweden and Norway

Warren Moore — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0000

The initial stages of deciding which countries will have the opportunity to host Euro 2016 got underway last night as proposed bids were received before UEFA’s midnight deadline (March 9)

Individual bids have been received from France, Italy and Turkey while a joint proposal has been put forward from Sweden-Norway to host the UEFA’s 2016 European football championships.

UEFA said in a statement Tuesday it would consider ‘any previous experience of relevant member associations, cities and venues in organizing multi-venue sports events’ before confirming an official list of bidders in the next month.

Each of the candidates must prepare a bid dossier by February 2010 followed by UEFA’s executive committee decision which will announced May 2010.

The 2016 tournament will see a shift in the tournament’s format and size. Euro 2016 will feature 24 teams after UEFA decided last year to increase the field from 16. UEFA requires the 2016 host to provide nine stadiums each holding at least 30,000 spectators. A 50,000-capacity stadium is needed for the final.

France last hosted the Euros in 1984 when current UEFA president Michel Platini captained the home team to the first of its two European titles. Italy staged the eight-team tournament in 1980, after the finals were expanded into a single-venue event with a group stage and knockout matches for the first time.

Sweden hosted the Euros in 1992 when just four stadiums were needed. Norway has never hosted a European championship and has qualified only once. While Turkey would also be hosting a European championship for the first time. Last year the Turkish government offered to host Euro 2012 if Poland and Ukraine were unable to meet their deadlines to complete preparations.

Metallica cancel concert after lead singer is hospitalised

Warren Moore — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Metallica were forced to cancel a show in Stockholm last night (March after singer James Hetfield was taken to hospital suffering from dehydration moments before they were due to perform.

16,000 Swedish fans had been waiting for the band to appear on stage for the show to begin, but were then told by the other members of the band that the gig was off.

It has been reported that drummer Lars Ulrich apologised to the crowd saying ‘Trust me, none of you guys wanna hear me, Rob or Kirk sing.’

Metallica are due to continue the UK leg of their 2009 tour in two weeks time taking in Birmingham’s LG Arena (March 25), Glasgow SECC (March 26) and coming to a close at London O2 Arena (March 28). Metallica tickets are still available from £65.

Ross Brawn steps in to save Honda Formula 1 team

Warren Moore — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Ross Brawn, Honda’s team Manager last season has acted as saviour and bought all the shares in the England-based team formula one team Honda Motor Co.

Brawn, who helped Schumacher win five straight driving titles as technical director at Ferrari, was hired to run the team 16 months ago. Before his 10 years with Ferrari, Brawn oversaw Schumacher’s back-to-back titles in the same role at the Benetton team in 1994 and 1995.

Ross Brawn’s intervention now means 10 teams will start this season which is due to open at the Australian Grand Prix (march 29). The sale comes at a time when Formula One costs are coming under closer scrutiny by automakers experiencing the worst global sales slump in decades. Honda quit the most-watched motor sport in December and put the team up for sale to save more than $203 million a year.

Brawn GP will use engines supplied by Mercedes-Benz in this year’s championship. The new team retaina Honda’s driving lineup of Britain’sJenson Button and Rubens Barrichello, who with 423 races between them, Button and Barrichello will form the most experienced partnership on next seasons grid.

Teams have only two pre-season testing sessions left before the championship starts. The final test takes place March 15 to 17 in Jerez, Spain.

British Formula one fans will have the opportunity to see the newly formed Brawn GP team this season during the British Grand Prix at Silverstone due to take place over the weekend of June 19, June 20 and June 21. Tickets for the British Grand Prix at Silverstone are available from £98 (June 19), £185.90 (June 20) and £137.84 (June 21)

Morrisey interrogated by US Immigration

Warren Moore — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0000

It has been reported that Morrissey has undergone US immigration interrogation in Atlanta when entering the United States to kick start his delayed world tour, which is due to begin tonight (March 6) in Calafornia.

The former Smith’s frontman, who already cancelled the first dates of his forthcoming world tour due to illness, had to avoid yet another possible delay in the form of US immigration officials.

In a blog posting on MySpace Morrissey commented with his usual brand irreverence and arrogance: ‘I have survived the interrogation of Atlanta’s Immigration officials and Myrtle Beach shall have me tomorrow night (Friday), and the world from then onwards … if the world can take it’.

The word tour which follows the release of Morrissey’s latest album ’Years Of Refusal’ is due to travel across the states including a stop at California’s Coachella Festival on April 17 before returning to Europe via Ireland on April 28.

The 2009 Morrissey tour returns to the UK in May. The Morrissey tour kicks off at Belfast’s Waterfront Hall on May 1st and includes visits to Birmingham Symphony Hall, Hull Arena and Manchester Apollo. The Morrissey tour comes to a close with three shows at London O2 Academy in Brixton. Morrissey tickets are available from £32.50.

Katy Perry extends Hello Katty tour

Warren Moore — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Katy Perry has announced that she is to extended her first major tour of the United States and Canada.

The Pop Princess of 2008 has harnessed her ‘I Kissed a Girl’ fame into becoming one of the top touring live acts in the United States this year. Her sell out ‘Hello Katty’ tour tour has now added dates across the stated including Fort Lauderdale, Florida; Santa Barbara, California and Houston.

Katy Perry has recently completed an early year UK tour and is due to return once again following her now extended trip around the United States. The second Katy Perry tour of 2009 starts at Brighton Dome (June 2) and features performances at Glasgow Barrowlands (June 6) and the O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire (June 9 & 10). Katy Perry will also be making appearances at some this years summer music festivals including, T in The Park, Oxegen and V Festival. Loads of Katy Perry tickets are still available from £25.

Oscar winning film Ghost to become West End musical

Warren Moore — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0000

It has been announced that Lord of the Rings director Matthew Warchus is to bring a new stage version of the Oscar-winning film Ghost to the London’s West End in 2010.

Music and lyrics will be provided by Dave Stewart, formerly of the Eurythmics, and Glen Ballard, while Brice Joel Rubin will adapt the original screenplay for the stage and write the lyrics. Rob Howell has been confirmed as set and costume designer, with musical supervision will be in the hands of Christopher Nightingale and Tesse Gohl.

Released in 1990, Ghost is one of the highest-grossing romantic films ever. The supernatural fantasy will follow Dirty Dancing to become the second film starring Patrick Swayze to be transferred to the London stage. And once Sister Act opens, it will be the second time a film starring Whoopi Goldberg has made the nerve-racking transition.

Further details of this intriguing musical will follow, but one thing is for certain, Ghost will undoubtedly be yet another theatregoer favourite along with other West End theatre tickets such as Blood Brothers, Oliver, The Sound of Music, Mamma Mia, Jersey Boys, Blue Man Group, We Will Rock You, Enjoy and of course the ever popular West End musical Billy Elliot

Telepathe announce UK tour

Warren Moore — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Electronic dance indie act Telepathe have confirmed that they will be touring the uk and Ireland this may.

The New York band, who have had recent breakthrough success after working with TV On The Radio’s Dave Sitek, will play a series of UK concerts as part of wider European tour.

The tour will call in the cities of London, Liverpool, Nottingham, Manchester, Leeds and Dublin.

The Telepathe tour kicks off at London’s 93ft East (May 11) and continues onto Nottingham’s Bodega Social Club (May 17), Dublin’s Academy 2 (May 19), Manchester ‘s Deaf Institute (May 20) and Liverpool’s Sound City (May 21). The telepathe tour draws to a close at Leeds’s Stag and Dagger (May 22).t

Take That star Gary Barlow injured on Mount Kilimanjaro

Warren Moore — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Doubts have emerged as to whether or not Take That star Gary Barlow will be able to make it to the summit of mount Kilimanajro, as he is suffering from acute backache.

It has been reported that the popstar has been walking under the observation of two doctors. It seems, the gruelling training seems to have taken a toll on Gary Barlow, as doctors fear that he may undergo more pain while trekking.

Take That fans will be urging Gary Barlow on during his epic trek for Comic Relief while also hoping he returns safe, well and prepared for Take That’s 2009 tour which kicks off this June.

The Take That tour kicks off at the Sunderland Stadium of Light on June 5 before visiting Coventry, Cardiff, Glasgow, Manchester and London. Hundreds of Take That tickets are still available from just £50.

June 5 & 6 – Sunderland Stadium of Light (tickets from £50)
June 8, 9 & 10 – Coventry Ricoh Arena (tickets from £70)
June 16 & 17 – Cardiff Millennium Stadium (tickets from £53)
June 19, 20 & 21 – Glasgow Hampden Park (tickets from £50 )
June 23, 24, 26, 27 & 28 – Lancashire County Cricket Ground (tickets from £65)
July 1, 3, 4 & 5 – London Wembley Stadium (tickets from £44)

The View on tour once again

Warren Moore — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0000

The View have confirmed that they will be playing three gigs this May

The Scottish outfit recently completed a sold-out headline tour of the UK last month, including a home-town show at Dundee’s Caird Hall and London’s Koko. They also undertook a 36-date UK tour last autumn and are due to tour Europe in later this month.

The View will embark on thier three date tour this May. The tour will take in Glasgow (May 14) Manchester (May 15) and London (May 16). The View Tickets will be available from this coming friday.

High School Musical 2 takes to the british stage

Warren Moore — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0000

The musical production team behind High School Musical Live on Stage! are planning a new stage version of the TV movie sequel, ‘High School Musical 2.’ The much anticipated show will launch in the UK at London’s Wimbledon Theatre in August 2009.

The production is currently already selling tickets up until January 2nd, 2010, with further dates due to be announced for 2010.

The stage production is expected to be directed by Jeff Calhoun, who has been involved in the Broadway production of Grease and Big River and the US and UK stage versions of High School Musical Live On Stage!

First broadcast in September 2007, the Disney Channel’s ‘High School Musical 2′ has been viewed by over 273 million people worldwide. .

The tour will commence at Wimbledon New Theatre, beginning performances Aug 22 for a run to Sept 5, then continue to Plymouth’s Theatre Royal (Sept 7 & 12), Sheffield’s Lyceum (Sept 14 & 19), Oxford’s New theatre (Sept 21 & 26), Manchester’s Opera House (Sept 28 & Oct 10), Brighton Centre (Oct 15 & 18), Wolverhampton’s Grand Theatre (Oct 20 & 24), Southampton’s Mayflower (Oct 26 & Nov 7), Leeds’ Grand Theatre (Nov 9 & 14), Belfast’s Opera House (Nov 16 & 21) and Birmingham’s Alexandra (Dec 15 & Jan 2).

High School Musical 2 will undoubtedly be yet another theatregoer favourite along with other West End theatre tickets such as Blood Brothers, Oliver, The Sound of Music, Mamma Mia, Jersey Boys, Blue Man Group, We Will Rock You, Enjoy and of course the ever popular West End musical Billy Elliot.

Many West End Theatre Tickets remain available for 2009.

Glasvegas free Notting Hill gig plays into the early hours

Warren Moore — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Glasvegas played an intimate surprise in Notting Hill in the early hours of this morning (February 26)

The band had followed the NME Awards show at the O2 Academy Brixton where they had duetted with Florence And The Machine’s Florence Welch.

According to reports the gig saw sometime support act Carl Barat crowd surf – after being lifted up above the packed audience by Jon ‘The Reverend’ McClure. The free-to-enter venue was packed with Glasvegas fans for the show which began around 12:30am.

Glasvegas finish their headline slot on the NME tour at the NME Big Gig due to take place at London’s O2 Arena tonight (February 26) after which they our planning a brief brake before returning for the summer bout of festival appearances.

Meanwhile crowd surfer and former Libertine and Dirty Pretty Things star Carl Barat has announced his maiden solo gig at the Wakefield Escobar on March 7. Caral Barat who recently supported Glasvegas on their recent North America tour is following in the footsteps of former Libertine and best friend Pete Doherty who is planning his own solo tour to support his eagerly anticipated debut solo album ‘Grace/Wastelands’ released March 16.

The twelve date Pete Doherty tour kicks off at Cardiff University on March 13 and concludes at the Edinburgh Picture House on March 27. You can also see Pete Doherty live at Rock City in Nottingham (March 18), Leeds O2 Academy (March 23) and Birmingham O2 Academy (March 25). Tickets to see Pete Doherty on his first full UK tour are be available from £33.

Blur return but Oasis are still the world’s best band

Warren Moore — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 12:00:00 +0000

London’s O2 Academy Brixton was host to the surprise return of Blur after a self enforced seven year absence. Damon Albarn and Graham Coxon received an ovation from the crowd of rock royalty attending this year’s NME Award Show.

The former Britpop stars took to the stage for the first time together since splitting in 2002 with the surprise and low key performance of This Is A Low from one the most successful albums of the 90′s Parklife.

This performance marks the official return of Blur as they set out to tour the UK this summer with a live dates including performances at summer festivals T in the Park and Oxegen as well as headline shows at Manchester MEN Arena (June 26) two historical gigs in London’s Hyde Park(July 2 & 3).

The surprise Blur performance acted as the perfect cap to yet another memorable NME awards show which saw Oasis crowned best band and The Cure named Godlike Geniuses, Pete Doherty named best male solo artist and Kings of Leon were rewarded with best album for Only By The Night.

Meanwhile other award recipients included MGMT who took away best new band and best track, The Killers who were named best international band and Muse who once again took home best live band.

In the less rewarding categories NME readers voted for he Jonas Brothers to receive worst band and worst album prizes, while Amy Winehouse was voted the world’s worst dressed woman. However style icon and tv presenter Alexa Chung was voted best dressed.

Elbow were honoured for their outstanding contribution to British music and The Cure won the Godlike Genius Award.

Many of the NME award winners are on tour in 2009.

Oasis will also be playing live in the UK this summer. The Oasis tour kicks off with three shows at Heaton Park in Manchester (June 4, 6 &7). Oasis play seven further dates including performances at Sunderland Stadium of Light (June 10), Cardiff Millennium Stadium (June 12), Murrayfield Stadium in Glasgow (June 17) and Coventry’s Ricoh Arena (July 7). The Oasis tour comes to a close in London with four shows at Wembley Stadium (July 9, 11 & 12). Loads of Oasis tickets are still available from £40.

Kings of Leon play UK shows in June visiting the O2 Arena, London and the Manchester Evening News Arena. Kings of Leon tickets are available from £50.

Tickets for Blur’s long awaited return show at Manchester MEN (June 26) Arena are available this morning (February 13) this show will be followed by the already sold out Blur concerts at London’s Hyde Park (July 2 , 3). Blur tickets are available from £25.

Elbow will set off on tour in Brighton Dome (February 26) continuing on to perform dates at Southend Cliffs Pavilion (March 1), Bournemouth Solent Hall (March 2), Sheffield Academy (March 3), Newcastle Academy (March 5), Edinburgh Corn Exchange (March 6) Blackpool Empress Ballroom (March 7), Llandudno Arena (March 9), Bristol Colston Hall (March 10), Plymouth Pavilions (March, 11) Newport Centre (March, 12) and finally the elbow tour will close at London Wembley Arena (March 14). Many Elbow Tickets are available from £40

The Pete Doherty tour kicks off at Cardiff University on March 13 and concludes at the Edinburgh Picture House on March 27. Fans can also see Pete Doherty live at Rock City in Nottingham (March 18), Leeds O2 Academy (March 23) and Birmingham O2 Academy (March 25). Pete Doherty tickets are available from £33

The Killers tour will continue at Birmingham’s LG arena (February 26 & 27), Cardiff International Arena (February 28), Sheffield Arena (March 2),Nottingham Ice Centre (march 3) Aberdeen Exhibition Centre (March 5) and the Newcastle Metro Radio Arena (March 7). The Killers tour comes to a close with two back to back shows at the Manchester Evening News Arena (March 9 & 10). Killers tickets are currently available from £44.

Paul Weller announces yet more 2009 dates

Warren Moore — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 12:00:00 +0000

The Paul Weller gig will take place in the world famous Times Square at the Nokia Centre venue (April 24). The show will be Wellers’s third US show this year and will follow a San Francisco appearance (April 17) and landmark performance at this years Coachella festival.

Paul Weller is also on tour in the UK this coming march. Paul Weller will play four dates kicking things off at the Civic Hall Wolverhampton on March 17. The Paul Weller tour also stops at the Oasis Leisure Centre in Swindon (March 18) and Plymouth Pavilions (March 19). The tour comes to a close with a massive Paul Weller concert at London’s O2 Arena on March 21. Hundreds of tickets to see Paul Weller are still available with prices starting at £37.50.

Paul Weller has also recently confirmed that he will play a series of outdoor shows this summer in the UK as part of the Forestry Commission Live Music 2009 Tour. The Paul Weller tour will kick of June 5 at Thetford Forest in Suffolk and include visits to Nottingham’s Sherwood Pines Forest Park (June 19) and the Westonbrit Arboretum (June 20), Gloucestershire. The final Paul Weller concert will take place at the Yorkshire Dalby Forest (June 27). Tickets are still available for Paul Weller’s summer shows at prices beginning at £33.

The Killers launch lawsuit against former manager

Warren Moore — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 12:00:00 +0000

The Killers have launched legal proceedings against their former manager Braden Merrick in pursuit of compensation for multi-million-dollar damages in missed concerts and lost touring revenues and the mishandling of merchandising and promotional opportunities.

The terms of the lawsuit describe Braden Merrick as an unresponsive and ineffective manager, often failing to fulfil essential duties expected of a manager. Reference is also maked to the fact that Braden Merrick acted as a consultant to the band’s label, Island Def Jam without their knowledge or consent.

This lawsuit follows shortly after Braden Merrick originally attempted to sue The Killers and their current manager, Robert Reynolds, for approximately $16 million apiece for unfair dismissal, breach of contract and failure to pay royalties owed to Merrick.

The Killers will be attempting to distract themselves from the legal proceedings as they continue their current UK tour. The Killers tour will play the second of their London O2 Area dates this evening (February 24) before continuing on to Birmingham’s LG arena (February 26 & 27), Cardiff International Arena (February 28), Sheffield Arena (March 2),Nottingham Ice Centre (march 3) Aberdeen Exhibition Centre (March 5) and the Newcastle Metro Radio Arena (March 7). The Killers tour comes to a close with two back to back shows at the Manchester Evening News Arena (March 9 & 10). Killers tickets are currently available from £44.

Fans will also have the opportunity to see The Killers at this summer’s UK festivals including T in the Park and Ireland’s Oxegen festival.

Paul Weller Scoops Best British Solo Male at Brit Awards

Warren Moore — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 12:00:00 +0000

The success of Paul Weller’s 2008 album 22 dreams helped the former Jam frontman beat off competition from other British solo artist Ian Brown, James Morrison, The streets and Will Young to be name Best Britsh Solo Artist of 2008.

Paul Weller’s Award was tainted in some controversy however following various bookmakers’ decision to suspend all Brits award related betting on suspicion that a list of winners had been leaked following a sudden rush of wagers were placed on Paul Weller to win best solo male artist across several William Hill Bookmakers.

Fans will have an oppurtunity to see the Mod father live in concert this summer which sees Paul Weller begin a tour at Halifax Victoria Theatre (May 5) continuing on to shows at Stoke Victoria Hall (May 6) Blackpool Empress Ballroom (May Middlesborough Town Hall (May 9) Doncaster Dome (May 11) Derby Assembly Rooms (May 12) Motherwell Concert Hall (May 14) Dundee Caird Hall (May 15) Bournemouth Opera House (May 17) Bristol Colston Hall (May 18) Leicester De Montfort Hall (May 19) finally finishing his tour at London;s Hammersmith Apollo (May21).

Other winners at the 2009 Brit Awards took place at London Earl’s Court included Kings of Leon who took home the awards for Best International Album and Best International Group, Elbow won the Best Group award, Katy Perry was named Best International Female and Iron Maiden took home the award for Best Live Act. As many had expected, Paul Weller picked up the Best Male Solo Artist award. Pet Shop Boys picked up the Outstanding Contribution to Music award and Florence and the Machine won the Critics’ Choice award.

A number of last night’s winners are on tour this year and tickets are selling fast. Katy Perry, Elbow, Kings of Leon and Paul Weller will be touring the UK in 2009.

Kings of Leon play UK shows in June visiting the O2 Arena, London and the Manchester Evening News Arena. Kings of Leon tickets are available from £50.

The first stage of the 2009 The Katy Perry tour kicks off on February 25 at Manchester Academy. Katy Perry then visits the KOKO club in London where she will play two back-to-back shows (February 26 &27). The second Katy Perry tour of 2009 starts at Brighton Dome (June 2) and features performances at Glasgow Barrowlands (June 6) and the O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire (June 9 & 10). Loads of Katy Perry tickets are still available from £31.

Carl Barat annouces solo show

Warren Moore — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Former Libertine and Dirty Pretty Things star Karl Barat has announced his maiden solo gig at the Wakefield Escobar on March 7.

The solo gig officially marks Carl Barat’s latest musical project following the decision to disband Dirty Pretty Things last December after the group’s 2008 album ‘Romance At Short Notice’ was released to lukewarm praise, and the band decided that the time had come to move on.

Caral Barat who recently supported Glasvegas on their recent North America tour is following in the footsteps of former Libertine and best friend Pete Doherty who is planning his own solo tour to support his eagerly anticipated debut solo album ‘Grace/Wastelands’ released March 16

Blur to make Manchester return

Warren Moore — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 12:00:00 +0000

It has recently been announced that Blur will play the first date of their reunion tour at Manchester MEN Arena. The Brit Pop stars will be returning to the stage on June 26.

Tickets for this long awaited show at Manchester MEN Arena will be available this coming Friday (February 13) and will act as a precursor to the already sold out Blur concerts at London’s Hyde Park (July 2 , 3).

Blur have also announced performances at T in The park along with already confirmed act Kings of Leon, Snow Patrol and Katy Perry and also Ireland’s Oxegen festival were they will be joining the likes of Killers and Bloc Party.

Further still Blur are rumoured to marking their historic return as one of the headline acts of this year’s Glastonbury Festival which takes place June 27 and 28, though this is yet to be confirmed.

Pete Doherty follows in Oscar Wildes footsteps

Warren Moore — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 12:00:00 +0000

It has been announced that Pete Doherty is set to give a lecture at Trinity College in Dublin tomorrow Friday (February 4).

The singer will be the guest of The University Philosophical Society (‘The Phil’) following in the footsteps of past speakers including Oscar Wilde, Bram Stoker, Helen Mirren, Al Pacino and John McCain.

Pete is currently on a promotional tour to support his eagerly anticipated debut solo album ‘Grace/Wastelands’ released March 16 and his subsequent nationwide solo tour.

Before the tour begins, Pete Doherty is due to play two of the Shockwaves NME Awards show nights. Pete Doherty will play shows at the O2 Shepherds Bush Empire in London on February 22 and Glasgow Barrowlands on february 24.

Tickets to see Pete Doherty on his first full UK tour will be available from £45.

London Shepherd’s Bush Empire (Shockwaves NME Awards show) (February 22)
Glasgow Barrowland (Shockwaves NME Awards show) (February 24)

Cardiff University Great Hall (March 13)
Southampton Guildhall (March 15)
Norwich UEA (March 16)
Lincoln Engine Shed (March 17)
Nottingham Rock City (March 18)
Brighton Dome (March 19)
Folkestone Lees Cliff Hall (March 20)
Leeds O2 Academy (March 23)
Grimsby Auditorium (March 24)
Birmingham O2 Academy (March 25)
Newcastle O2 Academy (March 26)
Edinburgh Picture House (March 27)

Injury blow for Scotland ahead of Six Nations kick off

Warren Moore — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Scotland will be without Euan Murray and Nathan Hines for Sunday’s Six Nations Championship clash with Wales at Murrayfield.

Star prop Murray has been ruled out with a rib injury meaning a test debut for Geoff Cross. Elsewhere, Hugo Southwell returns at full-back, with Graeme Morrison paired with Championship debutant Ben Blair in midfield, and Sean Lamont earning a recall on the left wing.

As expected, Phil Godman has been entrusted with the number ten jersey and, with Southwell at 15, that means that there is no room in the starting fifth teen at all for Chris Paterson, who must make do with a seat on the bench. Up front, meanwhile, Allister Hogg gets the nod at blindside flanker.

The eagerly anticipated Six Nations Championship kicks of this Saturday with Ireland vs France and England vs Italy (February 7) followed by Sunday’s match up between Scotland and Wales (February 8).

The Six Nations will continue with Wales vs England and France vs Scotland (February 14) followed by Italy vs Ireland (February 15). The following week will see France vs Wales (February 27) as well as Scotland vs Italy and Ireland vs England (February 28). The second to last round of fixtures matches up Italy vs Wales and Scotland vs Ireland (March 14) followed by England vs France (March 15). Finally the Six Nations Championship will draw to a close with Wales vs Ireland, Italy vs France and England vs Scotland (March 21).

Six Nations Tickets remain available for all fixtures and our available from £29.99

Fleet Fox goes solo

Warren Moore — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Fleet Foxes’ fans have discovered a side project of Robin Pecknold on Myspace.

The band is called White Antelope and its description reads; ‘covers and assorted stuff, nothing serious’.

The profile page contains two songs which are available for streaming, One of which is ‘False Knight On The Road’, which shall be included as a B-side to the forthcoming Fleet Foxes single ‘Mykonos’.

Pecknold is reported to remark ‘I used to post demos of songs on that page before the record came out. The Guitar Duet thing dates from when we were recording the LP and the cover of False Knight, I did about two weeks ago.’

Fans can expect to hear more from White Antelope as Pecknold seems eager to continue with the solo project, ‘I want to do a record of really spare stuff for White Antelope so it may be recorded this year’

Fleet Foxes will play three dates at London’s Roundhouse this Month (February 22, February 23, February 24 ). A lot of Fleet Foxes Tickets are still available from £49.99

Florence And The Machine announce secret gig

Warren Moore — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Florence And The Machine are set to play a surprise post shockwaves NME Awards Tour club show in Manchester this coming Friday February 6.

Following the sold-out gig at Manchester Academy, the group, led by Florence Welch will headline at the Lost And Found Club Night at the city’s Ruby Lounge venue.

Tickets are £7 on the door, while the band will be onstage around midnight.

The Shockwaves NME Awards Tour continues with Glasvegas, Friendly Fires, White Lies and Florence And The Machine playing the upcoming dates at Birmingham Academy (February 4), it then moves onto the Manchester Academy (February 6 and February 7), Leeds Academy (February 8), Lincoln Engine Shed (February 10), Nottingham Rock City (February 11), Norwich UEA (February 12), Cardiff University (February 14), Bristol Academy (February 15), Brighton Dome (February 16), Oxford Academy (February 17), Portsmouth Pyramid (February 19), Cambridge Corn Exchange (February 20) and finally the Shockwaves NME Tour comes to a close in London’s Brixton Academy (21). Loads of NME Tour tickets are still available from £40

Florence and the Machine will also play two sold out night at London’s Bloomsbury Ballroom (May 27 and May 28). Florence and The Machine Tickets are still available from £29.99

Meanwhile The White Lies also embark on their own UK tour in May. The White Lies tour kicks off at Leeds University (May 3) before stopping at Queen Margaret Union, Glasgow (May 4), Manchester Academy (May 5) and Heaven in London (May 7 & 8). Loads of White Lies tickets are still available from £24.

Pittsburgh Steelers win Superbowl XLIII

Warren Moore — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Santonio Holmes’ six-yard touchdown reception from Ben Roethlisberger’s pass in the corner of the end zone with 35 seconds remaining helped the Pittsburgh Steelers complete a dramatic 27-23 victory over the Arizona Cardinals to win Super Bowl XLIII in Tampa.

Holmes barely managed to drag both feet down before falling out of bounds as the Steelers won a game that featured 23 fourth-quarter points and two lead changes in the final three minutes.

The victory gave the Steelers an NFL-record sixth Super Bowl title. The Cardinals, fought back from 20-7 down in the final eight minutes with 16 consecutive points. However, Roethlisberger drove the Steelers 78 yards in eight plays to break Cardinals hearts.

The Steelers’ sixth title sees them move ahead of five-time champions San Francisco and Dallas. While the Cardinals 61-year title drought remains the second-longest in American sport, trailing only the 100-year wait of baseball’s Chicago Cubs.

Fans lucky enough to secure Super Bowl XLIII tickets were also treated to a spectacular, 12 minute half time show from current UK album chart number one Bruce Springsteen.

It had earlier been reported that tickets for the 2009 Super Bowl had been selling far below the price levels of previous years, in some cases down as much as 40%. Super Bowl tickets usually trade for thousands of dollars on the secondary ticket market, Super Bowl XLIII is the first time that average resale prices have dipped. Last year, tickets were trading for as much as $10,000. However, this year, the highest ticket prices were reported to be nearer the $5,000 mark.

The 2009-2010 NFL season kicks off in September and UK fans will be pleased to hear that a regular season game will be hosted at Wembley Stadium for the third year running. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers go head-to-head with the New England Patriots on October 25. Hundreds of NFL tickets are still available for the Wembley Stadium game in the UK and prices start at £89 available via tixdaq.

Rafael Nadal Wins Australian Open

Warren Moore — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Rafael Nadal captured the Australian Open title with an enthralling 7-5 3-6 7-6 3-6 6-2 win over Roger Federer.

The victory took Rafael Nadal’s grand slam tally to six, leaving only the US Open to complete the full set and also denied the Roger Federer a record-equalling 14th grand slam title.

The Melbourne Park final lived up to all expectations as the two best players of their generation slugged it out for almost four and a half hours in a classic match packed with magical shot-making and intense drama.

The momentum swung back and forth throughout before Rafael Nadal struck the killer blow when he broke in the fourth game of the deciding set as Roger Federer slapped a backhand into the net and once again in the eighth game to seal a famous victory.

Many onlookers had been watching this repeat of the Wimbledon 2008 final as a possible precursor to the Wimbledon 2009 Championships, where both Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer remain favourites to prevent Andy Murray from achieving a historical victory for British tennis.

The 2009 Wimbledon Tennis Championships are still six months away, but tickets are currently selling for thousands of pounds. Hundreds of Wimbledon tickets however are still available from £399.

See West Ham take on Hull City for a quid.

Warren Moore — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Premier League tickets are currently on offer for £1 for those lucky enough to be sixteen years old or younger. Tickets to watch West Ham versus Hull City at Upton Park on January 28 are currently available for less than £5 in total (including a £3.50 service charge).

Hull City are currently in the eighth place in the Premier League which is a remarkable feat for a newly promoted side. A series of strong performances against the likes of Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal has forced Hull in to the top half of the table and all but secured them top flight football next season.

West Ham are lying in tenth position in the Premier League table and a win over Fulham this coming Sunday (18 January) could take them above Hull. The former Chelsea star, Gianfranco Zola, has experienced mixed fortunes since taking the reigns at West Ham, but a strong second half to the season could give his team a chance of securing a UEFA Cup spot.

Manchester United heat up Premier League title race

Warren Moore — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Last night, Manchester United narrowly beat Wigan Athletic 1-0 to claim three more Premier League points. Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United started well as Wayne Rooney tapped home from a Cristiano Ronaldo cross. Manchester United dominated the opening half hour and Tevez should really should have put his side up 2-0 midway through the first half.

Despite their nervy start, Wigan showed their resilience in the second half and put Manchester United under pressure during the second half. Manchester United, however, showed why they are the Premier League title holders and managed to hold on to claim three valuable points.

Manchester United are now two points behind Liverpool with a game in hand and have been made firm favourites to land their third Premier League title in a row.

Madonna to appear on Britney tour?

Warren Moore — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 12:00:00 +0000

Britney Spears is set to embark on her world tour next March and it has been suggested that Madonna might be set to join her for some of the performances.

Britney Spears’ tour features an 8 night residency at the O2 Arena, London. The residency kicks off on June 3rd and comes to a close on the 14th. Hundreds of tickets are available for each of the nights with prices starting at £40.

Only time will tell if Madonna will decide to join Britney Spears on tour, but there is no doubt that it would be a hugeley popular decision.

The Twang Announce 2009 Dates

Warren Moore — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 12:00:00 +0000

It has recently been confirmed that The Twang will embark on a 15 date UK tour next year. The Twang’s 2009 tour kicks off in Norwich on February 2nd where they will perform at The Waterfront and climaxes Derby University’s student union on the 20th. The band will also play various other dates including visits to the student unions in Bath, Glasgow, Leeds and Reading.

Tennant backs out of Hamlet role

Warren Moore — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 12:00:00 +0000

David Tennant was forced to back out of last night’s Hamlet performance due to a back related injury. Official sources were unable to confirm whether Tennant would be able to perform at this evening’s press viewing.

Despite Tennant’s absence, his understudy was clearly capable of filling the gap left. The Hamlet stand-in, Edward Bennet, received a standing ovation from the packed Novello Theatre.

The Doctor Who star plays the lead role alongside Star Trek’s Patrick Stewart in the latest Royal Shakespeare Company production of Hamlet. The shows have recently moved from Stratford upon Avon to London’s Novello Theatre and every single performance is completely sold out.

The latest RSC production is set to run until January 10th at the Novello Theatre, London and tickets to see Hamlet are available from £100 on various online ticket exchanges.

Tennant’s Hamlet Theatre Event of the Year?

Warren Moore — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 12:00:00 +0000

It was recently announced that David Tennant was confirmed as one of the nominees in the Theatre Event of the Year category in the annual Theatregoers’ Choice Awards. The award is considered to be special as all the categories are voted for by the audiences rather than a panel of judges.

David Tennant plays the leading role in the latest RSC production of Hamlet and it is proving to be as popular with the critics as with the fans. Hamlet has only recently opened at The Novello Theatre in London after enjoying a successful stint in Stratford-upon-Avon. Hamlet tickets are currently available from £105.

Whilst Hamlet was nominated in the Theatre Event of the Year category, David Tennant missed out on a nomination for Best Actor in a Play. That category is headed up by Hollywood heavyweights, Jeff Goldblum and Kevin Spacey as well as Kenneth Branagh’s role in Ivanov and Adam Godley’s portrayal of Charlie Babbit’s autistic brother in Rain Man. Tickets to see Rain Man at the Shaftsbury Apollo are still available and the production runs until December 20th. There were also nominations across various other categories for Eddie Izzard’s Stripped tour which is taking place at the Lyric Theatre, Jersey Boys at the and We Will Rock You at the .

Nickelback to Play UK Shows

Warren Moore — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 12:00:00 +0000

Chad Kroeger and his fellow members of rock group, Nickelback, have today announced that they will play 5 huge arena dates next spring. Nickelback, who last toured the UK earlier this year, have confirmed their 2009 tour will begin on May 22nd in Manchester. Nickelback’s UK visit includes shows in Glasgow and London. Tickets go on sale this Friday.

May 22nd – MEN Arena, Manchester
May 23rd – SECC, Glasgow
May 25th – Metro Radio Arena, Newcastle
May 26th – National Indoor Arena, Birmingham
May 28th – O2 Arena, London

Some Might Say, Hatton is the Best

Warren Moore — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 12:00:00 +0000

As Ricky Hatton emerged from the smoke/dressing room on Saturday night at the MGM Grand, he was joined by two familiar faces. Brothers, Liam and Noel Gallagher had been invited to carry his belts to the ring in the highly anticipated bout. The fellow Mancunians then joined David Beckham at their ring side seats.

Mr Hatton looked much sharper than he did in his fight against Floyd Mayweather, but that may well have been down to the quality of opposition. The match came to an end in the 11th round when Hatton was declared the winner as a result of a technical knock-out.

Hatton has expressed his desire to step up a level and fight at the next weight division. This could mean an opportunity to take on The Golden Boy, Oscar De La Hoya. Only time will tell if Ricky can successfully make the transition from Light Welter-Weight to Light Middle-Weight.

The Gallagher brothers have recently completed their successful 2008 UK Arena Tour. If you did not manage to get to one of the shows, don’t forget that hundreds of tickets are still available to next year’s Summer Tour. The band will be kicking things off in their home town Manchester on 4th June. The Tour climaxes with 3 shows at Wembley Stadium in July. Tickets are available from £45.

Murray on Fire

Warren Moore — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 12:00:00 +0000

Earlier today, Andy Murray defeated Frenchman, Gilles Simon in straight sets to secure his place in the semi-finals in the Shanghai Masters Cup competition. The British number cruised past Simon winning the first set 6-4 and the second 6-2.

Murray’s next challenge comes in the form of Swiss Ace, Roger Federer. Only time will tell if the Scotsman can put the US open defeat behind him and emerge victorious against the defending champion.

Novak Djokovic was the first player to secure a place in the semis after beating Nikolay Davydenko in straight sets.

Tennis fans will have a chance to see some of the legends of the game in action at next month’s Black Rock Masters series in London. The competition starts on the 2nd of December at the Royal Albert Hall and tickets are still available.

The Power Triumphs in Dublin

Warren Moore — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 12:00:00 +0000

Phil – The Power – Taylor clinched his Eighth professional Darts Grand Prix title on Sunday after beating his Dutch counterpart, Raymond van Barneveld. Taylor beat his rival by 4 sets to secure the coveted prize.

The Power has recently rediscovered his form and is clearly back to his winning ways. Following the win, confidence is high in the Taylor camp and he has been made favourite to reclaim the World title in January. The World Championships kick off on the 19th December at London’s Alexandra Palace. Tickets are still available for The Final on the 4th January. Top seats are currently listed for as much as £449.99.

Sussex Trio Keane to Give Fans Taste of New Material

Warren Moore — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 12:00:00 +0000

In the same week that Mancunian loud mouths, Oasis labelled them “shit”, Keane have announced that they will be using the same technology to offer fans a preview of their new album, Perfect SymmetryPerfect Symmetry. Fans will be allowed to hear the tracks via Last.Fm as of the 6th October – a week prior to the official release date. The album will face stiff competition from Boyzone’s new record which will also be out on the 13th October.

Both bands have recently announced 2009 arena tours. Keane kick off in Belfast on the 23rd January and end in London on 12th February. Boyzone’s 12 night tour commences 4 months later on May 24th before visiting 10 more cities including Glasgow, Manchester and London. Tickets are selling out fast for both tours and fans are encouraged to get them before it is too late.

UK Government to Give Away Free Theatre Tickets

Warren Moore — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 12:00:00 +0000

The theatre has long held an elitist and pretentious image in the minds of young Britons. However, a state funded plan that was launched today is aiming to change the way the theatre is viewed by the nation’s young adults. Starting in 2009, the government will inject more than £2 million into the new project in order to fund free access to theatre across the UK for 18-26 year olds.

Tickets to certain shows have long been inaccessible for the younger end of the market due to high ticket prices. Discounts already exist for students, but many young professionals are not keen to fork out for full priced tickets.

Only time will tell how successful the new scheme will be in attracting new audiences to theatres across the UK. However it is clear that the opposite end of the market is demonstrating a willingness to pay whatever it takes to see their favourite shows. Some of this year’s top shows including Oliver!, Mamma Mia and Dirty Dancing are selling for more than six times face value on the resale markets. One pair of tickets originally bought for £90 to see David Tennant in the latest production of Hamlet sold recently for £607.

Metallica Tickets For £5!

Warren Moore — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 12:00:00 +0000

In a move that is claimed to reward their fans, donate proceeds to charity, and control the online secondary ticket market, Metallica have opted to use paperless ticketing for their forthcoming UK show.

Last week the heavy metal legends, Metallica, announced a one-off UK show at London’s O2 Arena. However, instead of using regular ticket distribution channels, the band has decided to embrace a new paperless technology. The system, that has yet to be tested in Europe, was used by Tom Waits on his North American “Glitter and Doom” tour earlier this year.

Metallica have rewarded loyal fans by charging only £5 to attend the performance and have said that the proceeds will be donated to charity. Only existing members of the official fan club (annual membership $60) and those who have pre-ordered the new album were able to order tickets. Fans must bring the credit card used to pay for the tickets to the event. The card will then be scanned at the gates and the loyal fan will be handed a receipt as proof of entry.

Whilst the decision to go with the paperless ticketing system is a way of reducing the resale of tickets, it also restricts the ticket holder and as no deal has been cut with a secondary operator, arguably their charitable donation will be negligible after the cost of putting on the show. Only time will tell whether or not this will turn out to be a successful move.

R.E.M Tickets – Half Price

Warren Moore — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 12:00:00 +0000

In light of the slow sales for R.E.M’s recent UK tour, it is clear that more savvy concert-goers have chosen to wait and beat the online ticket market. Some fans paid as little as £22 to see the alt-rock legends at Twickenham stadium this weekend.

48 hours before the concert was set to take place, over 200 tickets were still available to buy online from both primary and secondary outlets. Some sellers had clearly failed to check market prices and were listing general admission tickets for as much as £128.

Despite the relatively poor turnout, the band reportedly put on a great show for those who did attend.

What a Joke – Comedy Ticket Prices Soar Online

Warren Moore — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 12:00:00 +0000

Following the announcement of a number of national comedy tours this year, it is clear that they are having an impact on the secondary market. Top tickets for the likes of Steve Coogan, Lee Evans and Chris Rock are currently selling for up to 8 times face value.

Lee Evans tops the chart with tickets listed for as much as £440 – originally priced at just £30. Near identical seats for his performance at the O2 Arena on the 4th October range between £133 and £357.50. Recent sales figures indicate that one fan paid as much as £249.99 for a single ticket – over 8 times the original price.

Other notable examples include Steve Coogan. Tickets for his forthcoming tour are currently on sale for £262, over 5 times face value. Similar mid stalls tickets on the same night can be found for £88.