TWO shows forming part of Bradford Live's launch season have been announced. 

The former Odeon cinema will open its doors as a new 3,800-capacity venue in autumn.

The iconic 1930s building is currently undergoing a multi-million-pound transformation.

Bradford Live will be handing the venue over to the operator, the NEC Group, by mid-2024, before the group completes the final fit-out.

Today, organisers have announced two shows Bradford Live will host in November. 

‘Thank you for the Music’, The Ultimate Tribute to ABBA will take place on Friday, November 8.

The show, now in its 21st year, brings all of ABBA’s number-one hits together with "unmistakable harmonies, colourful costumes, and dazzling performances by our all-star cast".

‘Legend – The Music of Bob Marley’ will also be arriving at Bradford Live, direct from the West End on Friday, November 29.

The show is described as an "unforgettable evening celebrating this musical icon in one fantastic stage show extravaganza".

It combines Marley's "superb, distinctive vocals with flawless musicianship, a supremely talented cast recreate the timeless hits".

Customers can sign up for exclusive pre-sale access to both shows via the Bradford Live website.

Tickets go on general sale at 10am this Friday (January 19).

Darren Moore, General Manager of Bradford Live, said: “We’ve now arrived in our year of opening and to be able to start announcing events is extremely exciting.

"Attending an event at Bradford Live will be easy, with great access to city centre transport links, nearby parking and an in-venue food and beverage offering.

"Make sure you get your tickets and be part of an unforgettable opening season.”

Bradford Live is set to be a "premier destination for exceptional entertainment, delivering amazing experiences" for visitors from Bradford and beyond.

It is expected to attract 300,000 visitors each year through hosting a calendar of more than 200 events, providing the city with great live entertainment, plus conference, meeting, and banqueting spaces.   

The 1930s ballroom will become a 500-person capacity space for hosting entertainment, conferencing, and banqueting events, whilst the main auditorium will be reinstated to house an audience of over 3,000 fans. 

The new venue will provide catering to suit all dietary requirements including halal and vegan, from menus of à la carte dining through to street food.

Premium hospitality will also be available, offering a variety of options to upgrade event experiences to include VIP seating areas and pre-show food and drinks.