2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Glasgow Times
Everything you need to know about the O2 Academy in Glasgow
With so many artists like Kneecap and The White Buffalo coming to the O2 this year, you may be looking to know more about the venue, especially if you haven't been before.
When did the O2 Academy in Glasgow open?
According to Hidden Scotland, the 02 Academy, located on Eglinton Street, was originally built as a United Secession Church in 1825.
The venue was then converted into the Bedford Cinema in 1921 before it was destroyed in a fire just 11 years later.
The newly constructed cinema opened on Boxing Day that same year and remained a picture house until 1973.
Before becoming a music venue in 2003, it was used as a bingo hall. The gig space was launched by Deacon Blue, with the venue since hosting The Killers, James Brown and more.
How to get to the O2 Academy in Glasgow from the city centre
The O2 Academy is only a short drive from the city centre, with those travelling from Glasgow's Buchanan Bus Station only needing to drive for around 11 minutes.
Those making use of public transport can take the "Number 3" bus from West Regent Street before getting off at Bedford Street, a one-minute walk away from the venue, according to First Bus.
What items are banned at the O2 Academy?
The O2 Academy website lists the following banned items:
Weapons, including but not limited to firearms, knives, combat weapons, explosives, heavy chains, etc
Illegal drugs and substances, including unmarked liquid or pill medication bottles and nitrous oxide, etc
Bags and containers larger than 40cm x 40cm x 20cm
Alcohol, cans, bottles, including any glass objects or vessels or metal cans and objects
Food or drink (unless required due to a pre-existing condition, which is supported with medical evidence)
Liquids, gels and perfumes of more than 100ml
Laser pens or pointers
Professional cameras, including professional camera equipment
Fireworks, fire-starters, and open flames
Laptops, tablets, audio recording equipment, noise-making devices or card reading devices
Skateboards and rollerblades, hover-boards, scooters, bicycles, and other personal motorised and non-motorised vehicles
Non-service animals/animals not used by those with a disability
Unauthorised solicitation, flags or marketing materials (e.g., posters, flyers, stickers)
All unapproved unmanned aerial systems (UAS) or drones, unless expressly authorised in accordance with LNE's Unmanned Aircraft Systems Policy
Chairs or stools
Helmets
Large umbrellas
Pushchairs
Spray cans, markers and graffiti pens
Any item deemed to be dangerous by the General Manager
What is the capacity of the O2 Academy?
The Glasgow International Comedy Festival website states that the venue houses a state-of-the-art sound and lighting system.
It also has a capacity of 2,550, allowing it to cater to live gigs and cutting-edge dance events.
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Are there any age restrictions at the O2 Academy in Glasgow?
The O2 states that restrictions can range from "only 14s and over" to "under 14s must be accompanied by an adult" to "strictly over 18s", etc.
As such, those under the age of 18 or accompanying children should check in advance before booking tickets.