London’s British Airways ARC Venue To Launch With Self Esteem As First Headliner

AEG Presents has announced the first group of performers who will take the stage at London’s highly anticipated new concert space, the British Airways ARC, as the venue prepares for its official opening later this summer.

Leading the first run of shows is Self Esteem, who will perform two headline concerts on June 16 and June 17. Following those opening dates, pop rock band McFly will perform on June 18, while country act Zac Brown Band is scheduled for June 25. Khalid will also appear at the venue on Oct. 24, marking his first headline performance in the United Kingdom since his Free Spirit arena tour back in late 2019.

The venue is also aiming to showcase a wide range of musical styles through a newly formed partnership with the EFG London Jazz Festival. This collaboration will begin with a special concert from saxophonist Branford Marsalis and singer Dianne Reeves on Nov. 21, honoring the influence and legacy of jazz legend John Coltrane.

Lucy Noble, senior vice president of U.K. venues at AEG, shared her excitement in an official statement. “We are very proud of our newest venue and to have this lineup of the first incredible artists set to play is a fantastic way to begin the British Airways ARC story. When fans come to see shows at British Airways ARC, they are going to be able to enjoy world class facilities across everything from sound to seating and we really can’t wait to open the doors.”

Located inside the newly redeveloped Olympia complex, the British Airways ARC will hold 3800 guests and aims to become a major stop on London’s live music map. The space forms part of a £1.3 billion redevelopment of the historic 138 year old exhibition and conference venue in Kensington, west London, which was first constructed to host agricultural exhibitions and military events.

The upgraded Olympia site will also include a theatre with 1575 seats, multiple bars and dining spaces, two hotels and dedicated office areas. Ticketing operations for British Airways ARC will be handled by AXS.

Throughout its long history, Olympia has welcomed many legendary performers such as Jimi Hendrix, Rod Stewart, Primal Scream, The Cure and The Chemical Brothers.

AEG Presents manages a wide range of venues and live music events throughout the United Kingdom, including the well known BST Hyde Park summer concert series. The company is also responsible for programming spaces like the recently reopened Watford Colosseum, Indigo at The O2 and Eventim Apollo.