First Direct Arena, Leeds

Situated behind the Merrion Centre in Leeds, the First Direct Arena is a 13500 capacity entertainment centre constructed to have a fan-shaped orientation, the first of its kind in the UK. It promises to have a ‘perfect sightline’ from each seat, and according to Leeds City Council, the flat floor seating and 15 rows of retractable seating can be removed to create a huge floor area holding thousands of standing spectators. The flexible interior design will therefore be able to accommodate a wide range of events including dance and ice dance events, basketball, tennis, boxing and wrestling. The Arena first opened on 24 July 2013, when Bruce Springstein played to an audience of 13000 although it was officially opened on Sept 4th, with Sir Elton John topping the bill and playing to an audience of 12000.
Today I really tried all ways I could to make this building look exciting and above all dramatic, but despite my best efforts I couldn’t make it look anything other than it is, a plastic dome. I have no doubt however that after dark when the lights are on and the lasers are operating, it will look quite different and extremely dramatic. That however will necessitate a special visit later in the year when the days are much shorter.