Bon Jovi rocks out the new-look Dome

Monday, 25 June 2007

American rockers Bon Jovi yesterday played the first gig at the renovated Millennium Dome in front of a 20,000 capacity crowd.

Their two-hour set marked the official reopening of the venue, which is now known as the O2 Arena, after it became disused following the millennium celebrations.

In a thrilling sound and light show, the band blasted out classics including Living On A Prayer and You Give Love A Bad Name as well as songs from new album Lost Highway.

And lead singer Jon Bon Jovi told fans he was impressed by the new venue, which is the largest indoor arena in Europe.

He said: "Welcome to your brand new home. I've got to say, judging from the crowd out here tonight, who the hell needs Wembley Stadium?"

Bon Jovi kicked off the packed summer schedule for the venue which will see gigs from big names such as Elton John, the Rolling Stones, the Scissor Sisters and Justin Timberlake.

The opening of the new arena comes after a £600 million investment from new owners AEG Entertainments to renovate the Dome, which had been rarely used since 2000.

Redevelopment work added the 20,000 seat main arena as well as installing additional bars and smaller venues which will host gigs and sporting events.

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