SOME of the first acts for the long-awaited Bradford Live have been announced - but some music fans have been left disappointed. 

The former Odeon cinema will open its doors as a new 3,800-capacity venue this autumn after undergoing a multi-million-pound transformation.

Today, two shows that will form part of the 2024 Launch Season were announced.

‘Thank you for the Music’, The Ultimate Tribute to ABBA will take place on Friday, November 8.

Now in its 21st year, the "international smash-hit tribute show brings all ABBA’s number one hits to the stage in a production like no other".

‘Legend – The Music of Bob Marley’ will also be arriving directly from the West End on Friday, November 29.

It's described as "an unforgettable evening celebrating this musical icon in one fantastic stage show extravaganza" with gigs at prominent venues across the country including Leeds Grand Theatre, Manchester's Bridgewater Hall and more.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Bosses at Bradford Live said it was "extremely exciting" to be able to announce acts for what is set to be an "unforgettable opening season".

But the first announcement has been met with a mixed reaction from T&A readers.

Carolyn Kavanagh said: "I don't mind tribute acts but for this venue, I expected a lot better."

"How disappointing," said Eddie Kirby.

George Rothery said: "The Piece Hall in Halifax gets named acts. Bradford gets tribute acts."

Last year, when asked if she was concerned if the success of The Piece Hall in Halifax would impact the success of Bradford Live, Bradford Council leader Susan Hinchcliffe said: "No, and neither is the NEC Group who will operate the venue."

She added: “It is worth bearing in mind that the Piece Hall only runs a set number of concerts in certain months of the year compared to the high number of events Bradford Live will host throughout the year.”

Others were far more optimistic about the first announcement, with people urged to "be patient" and celebrate the huge journey the building has been on. 

Ian Houldsworth added: "Stop knocking the venue. It's new and has to establish itself. The bigger named acts will come, be patient!"

Writing on Bradford Live's announcement on Facebook, Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw, Bradford Council's executive member for regeneration, planning and transport, said: "Amazing to think this week you will be able to buy tickets to see an event at Bradford Live.

"An incredible moment, and so much more to come!"

Darren Moore, General Manager of Bradford Live, said: “We’ve now arrived in our year of opening and to be able to start announcing events is extremely exciting.

"Attending an event at Bradford Live will be easy, with great access to city centre transport links, nearby parking and an in-venue food and beverage offering."

Reacting to the response at the first announcements, Mr Moore also told the T&A: “The two events announced this week form a part of our 2024 Launch Season programme.

"We will soon be announcing further events subject to our contractual obligations with promoters.” 

Tickets for both shows go on general sale at 10am this Friday (January 19).