The Co-op has teamed up with legendary poet Dr John Cooper Clarke to celebrate its unique partnership with the UK’s largest live entertainment arena – Co-op Live – with a poem that pays tribute to the city of Manchester, its people and the venue.
Dr John Cooper Clarke’s ode highlights the enduring connection between Co-op and Manchester, emphasising the impact of Co-op’s presence in the community over the years.
The poem was written in Clarke’s signature punk style, declaring that “a town is not a proper town without the old Co-op around.” He continues by praising the impact Co-op Live has on the international music scene as one of the most sustainable and socially responsible venues in Europe.
Dr John Cooper Clarke said: “The Co-op has been there throughout my life – a permanent piece of street furniture. Now we have Co-op Live, a purpose-built music venue that does good for the community – what’s not to like?”
Amanda Jennings, Director of Marketing Communications, Co-op added:
“I am no poet, but what I do know is Co-op is an honest and humble brand that is all about making a difference. And who better to help to help celebrate our unique partnership with Co-op Live than the proper sound Mancunian Dr John Cooper Clarke? We’re delighted to collaborate with John and his words perfectly capture the essence of community that Co-op, and Co-op Live, is built on.”
The Proper Sound poem follows a run of A list show announcements made by the arena in September and October, which offer Co-op members first access to tickets to see global music artists and homegrown talent through the presale.
As a result of Co-op’s naming right partnership, and one of the key proof points highlighted in this bespoke poem, Co-op Live will donate at least £1million annually to the Co-op Foundation to support communities and empower young people to take social action via initiatives like the Young Gamechangers Fund.
The Young Gamechangers Fund is a ground-breaking initiative funded by the Co-op Foundation, the #iwillFund and Co-op. It offers grants of up to £20k directly to individual young people aged 10-25 to catalyse their ideas for turning their communities into safer, more sustainable and more inclusive places to live. Grants from the fund will also support youth led groups and organisations working to improve their communities.
