The O2 London Celebrates 10 Years
Located prominently on the Greenwich peninsula, South-East London is The O2 formerly known as the Millennium Dome. Originally built as the venue to hold the Millennium Experience, an exhibition designed to celebrate the turning of the third millennium opened to the public in January 2000. Unfortunately, the “Dome” and its exhibition was the subject of considerable political controversy as it failed to attract the number of visitors anticipated, and experienced recurring financial problems. According to The Guardian newspaper, this building project represented no more than a, “great, frayed tent by the Thames” costing over £850 Million to build and almost costing the political careers of a number of New Labour Ministers as they struggled to both fund and find purpose worthy of an iconic landmark.
It is by stark contrast and with the vision of AEG founder Phil Anschutz that the renamed, The O2, is now not only the company’s flagship London venue and now one of the worlds most successful, and recognisable music and entertainment venues and a must-have tour destination for many major artist’s visiting the UK.
Earlier this year and only a day after hosting the 2017 Brit Awards a new ten year sponsorship deal was announced by O2 estimated to be worth £125 million. This deal signified the considerable media value that the mobile operator placed on its wide ranging marketing partnership with AEG by extending it to over a twenty year period. The continuation of this marketing partnership will also include significant investment into their Priority Tickets loyalty programme which is described as providing, “unforgettable live experiences and memories” for O2 customers.
As part of The O2 10th birthday, alt-J started the week long celebrations followed by dates by Céline Dion and Ed Sheeran. Unfortunately, the planned concert by Jay Kay and Jamiroquai was postponed until the 3rd and 6th December as Jay Kay recuperates after a procedure. All tickets purchased will remain valid for the rescheduled dates and refunds, if required, are available from point of purchase.
Happy birthday The O2...
Image Credit: VisitEngland/Diana Jarvis
