Joe GallopGlasgow’s OVO Hydro (cap. 14,300) and King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut (300) came out on top at the inaugural Ticketmaster Awards after winning the public vote for UK Venue of the Year and UK Indie Venue of the Year, respectively.
Other categories at the awards included Sporting Event Of The Year, which was won by the Birmingham Commonwealth Games and Festival Of The Year, won by Festival Republic’s Reading & Leeds.
OVO Hydro won UK Venue of the Year after hosting a record number of annual visitors. The venue hosted sold-out shows including a 16-night run with Kevin Bridges, who was up for UK Comedian of the Year, and International Live Act of the Year nominee Billie Eilish. Other nominees in the category included AO Arena Manchester (21,000), Utilita Arena Newcastle (11,000) and P&J Live Aberdeen (15,000).
OVO Hydro director of live entertainment Debbie McWilliams said, “We are thrilled to receive this recognition amongst so many incredible venues across the UK. 2022 was a special one for us at OVO Hydro, as we welcomed fans in record numbers and had our busiest year of shows across multi-genres.”
Since opening 33 years ago, King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut has become known for showcasing new and emerging bands. It has hosted artists such as The Killers, Florence and the Machine, The 1975 and Oasis. Glasgow venues SWG3 and Oran Mor joined King Tut’s in the shortlist for this award.
King Tut’s general manager Davie Millar said, “It’s down to music fans across the country who have supported the venue that we can continue to celebrate the rich music scene in Scotland, and welcome back established acts who have a strong affinity to the venue.”
Glasgow is estimated to host more than 130 gigs each week, alongside a programme of comedy, theatre and sport. In September, OVO Hydro will celebrate its 10th year, welcoming acts such as Lewis Capaldi, Lizzo and Elton John.
Pictured: Swedish House Mafia at OVO Hydro in September.