Rock royalty Richard Ashcroft to perform in Wigan for first time in 25 years
Richard Ashcroft has revealed his excitement in announcing a highly anticipated show scheduled for Saturday, July 20, next year at Robin Park Arena in Wigan.
This marks the first time the 52-year-old, originally from Orrell, will perform in Wigan since the iconic Haigh Woodland Park concert with his former band, The Verve, in May 1998.
Ashcroft expressed his delight today, stating, «After 25 years, back playing in my hometown. Looking forward to an amazing night in Wigan.»
Tickets for the event will be available for purchase starting Friday, December 1, at 9 am through www.gigsandtours.com and www.ticketmaster.co.uk.
Kris Radlinski, Chief Executive of the Warriors, remarked, «The date May 24, 1998, holds a special place in the recollections of numerous Wigan residents, myself included, serving as a cultural high point when The Verve electrified Haigh Hall to its very essence. This was a moment that Wigan crafted, leaving an enduring 'I was there' memory for the town.»
A remarkable career
A two-time Ivor Novello winner, Ashcroft, recognized for Songwriter of the Year in 1998 and Outstanding Contribution to British Music in 2019, has released five Top 5 solo albums, including the chart-topping debut Alone With Everybody.
Born in Orrell, Ashcroft attended Up Holland High School and later studied at Winstanley College, where he met future Verve lead guitarist Nick McCabe. Despite being perceived as a troublemaker by some teachers, others acknowledged his remarkable intelligence.
Ashcroft gained public attention with The Verve, releasing the immensely successful Urban Hymns album, ranked the UK’s 18th biggest selling album of all time. Anthems such as «The Drugs Don’t Work,» «Bittersweet Symphony,» «Lucky Man,» and
