Manchester City has officially submitted a planning application to Manchester City Council for a new three-storey immersive event venue at the Etihad Campus, set to host the globally renowned theatrical dining experience, Mamma Mia! The Party.
In a significant expansion of its ongoing entertainment-focused redevelopment, Manchester City has partnered with investors and producers Pophouse Entertainment to bring a unique, immersive experience to the club’s new £300 million leisure quarter, Medlock Square.
A Year-Round Destination
The proposed venue is designed to accommodate up to 600 guests per show, offering a theatrical dining experience that transports attendees to the Greek island of Skopelos. The project is a key component of the wider Medlock Square development, which aims to transform the Etihad Campus into a year-round hub for culture, leisure, and entertainment.
Complementing existing developments—including the stadium’s North Stand expansion, the new Radisson-operated Medlock Hotel, and the nearby Co-op Live arena—the venue will help establish East Manchester as a primary destination for both sports fans and international tourists.
Strategic Vision
“Working with Pophouse, the Club’s latest proposal to further develop the Etihad Campus is an incredibly exciting opportunity for both East Manchester and the wider city,” said Danny Wilson, Managing Director of Manchester City Operations. “We know there is an ever-increasing demand for more immersive entertainment experiences in the North of England, and we are proud to bring a world-renowned event to Medlock Square.”
Community and Economic Impact
Beyond the entertainment value, the development is underscored by a commitment to local economic growth. Manchester City has emphasized that the project will provide:
- Job Creation: New permanent roles and training opportunities during the construction phase.
- Local Supply Chain: Utilization of local businesses to support the venue’s operations.
- Career Pathways: Enabling local residents to build long-term careers within the Campus infrastructure.
Global Reach
Mamma Mia! The Party has achieved significant international success, with a long-running production at The O2 in London since 2019 and a decade-long staple in Stockholm. The proposed Manchester site represents the next phase of the hit musical’s global expansion.
Jessica Koravos, CEO of Pophouse Entertainment, added: “Manchester is known for its enthusiasm and innovation in music and entertainment, and we cannot think of anywhere better to bring one of the world’s most popular and groundbreaking theatrical productions.”