Sir Van Morrison has been announced as the first artist to hold a residency at the glittering new British Airways ARC venue at Kensington Olympia in West London this summer. The legendary singer-songwriter will perform five nights on September 23, 24, 27, 28, and 29. Tickets go on sale at 9am on Friday, May 15, available from Ticket Line or the venue's website.
A Historic Residency
Lucy Noble, SVP UK venues AEG Presents, said: "We are thrilled to welcome Van Morrison as the very first artist to have a residency at our brand-new venue. The shows are set to be incredible." This residency offers fans a chance to see one of the 20th century's most enigmatic singer-songwriters in an intimate London setting.
Van Morrison's Legacy
Born in Northern Ireland, Morrison has released 46 albums, first lighting up the charts in 1967 with his signature hit "Brown-Eyed Girl." A pioneer of soul and early rhythm and blues, his songs have been covered by numerous artists, including "Gloria" by The Doors, Jimi Hendrix, and Patti Smith; Rod Stewart's "Have I Told You Lately?"; Joe Cocker's "Into The Mystic"; and Michael Bublé's "Moondance."
Knighted for services to music in 2016, Morrison's catalogue was used extensively in Kenneth Branagh's Oscar-winning film "Belfast" (2021). The announcement follows Morrison receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Jazz FM Awards 2026 last month, another milestone in his influential career.
Upcoming Performances
Alongside the London dates, Morrison is scheduled to appear at several European festivals in 2026, including the renowned Montreux Jazz Festival. The ARC venue officially opens on Tuesday, June 16, with a special opening show by alternative pop singer Self Esteem. The 3,800-capacity concert hall is located above the West Hall and will host live shows immediately, with performances from McFly on June 18 and Zac Brown Band on June 25.
Van Morrison will perform at British Airways ARC venue at Kensington Olympia on September 23, 24, 27, 28, and 29. Tickets go on sale at 9am on Friday, May 15.
