O2 Academy

 The O2 Academy is located on Eglington Street, in which the building originally served its purpose as a church and then went on to be a cinema when it reopened in 1921. It then went onto operate as a bingo hall before finally closing for a decade to go onto the launch of the music venue it is seen as today. 

The O2, opened as a music venue in 2003, originally under the name Carling Academy, and set their debut welcoming artists such as Deacon Blue and the Sugababes and has welcomed many famous artists over the years.

In terms of my opinion on this venue, I don't rate it highly. With this being said, I still go to and thoroughly enjoy concerts here, but from my perspective standing at this venue is the way forward. The seating at the O2, is specifically an aspect I dislike about the venue, due to how high up they are and the slightly awkward, almost claustrophobic feeling. The seating can be quite steep and I find it hard to see the act clearly. However, one thing I do really like about the O2 that is not seen in any other venue in Glasgow, is  above the doors outside where they have the title screen that showcases the date and the artist that is performing that night. I think it has a very unique and 'vintage' feel to it and is something that is not seen amongst any other venues in Glasgow. Furthermore, the O2 Academy also has the balcony stalls, where you can watch down to the stage, this offers a different angle to see the artist, where you can still stand yet you are not amongst the crowd, which from experience, can get a bit chaotic at gigs (especially a Glasgow crowd!).

Outside of the O2, showcasing the title screen
Balcony stalls in the O2








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I have been to a few concerts at the O2 Academy including, Jake Bugg, Vistas, Courteeners and next year I will be seeing Ocean Colour Scene (again) at this venue as well. I saw Jake Bugg at the O2 in March 2022 and it was my first time going to the venue. Whilst I had a really good time, we were in seating and in my opinion, it's just not the same! This may be my personal preference though as I know many people don't enjoy the rowdiness that a concert can bring. 



Jake Bugg at the O2, in seating
Courteeners at the O2, from standing


Both of these concerts were a great experience, however the atmosphere from Courteeners standing was electric! It was definitely a true Scottish crowd there that night although a much more rowdy experience than in seating, again I personally love the jumping and dancing that comes along with the gig atmosphere. I do think in any way seeing an artist you love will be amazing regardless where you are sat or stood, and I have been at some amazing concerts in the O2 Academy, therefore I still highly appreciate it.


Sources: 

https://www.glasgowtimes.co.uk/news/23018584.story-glasgow-o2-academy/

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