The Commercial Tavern is a long way from Ed Sullivan’s stage, but it will be home to a little taste of Beatlemania Sunday afternoon, courtesy of a tribute show that covers the life and times of possibly the greatest and most popular band ever.
One of the most commercially successful and critically acclaimed acts in music history, The Beatles recordings have sold more than one billion units, according to Guinness World Records. Originally formed in 1960, the group developed their musical skills and reputation through extensive live performances that culminated into riotous enthusiasm by screaming fans wherever they went, a phenomenon known as Beatlemania.
The performers on stage in Maryhill tomorrow will be looking bring that phenomenon back to life. All songs in “Beatlemania Revisited” are performed note for note by the cast members who are further augmented with full costumes, vintage instruments and equipment.
The group of performers has been together for about two years, starting out in a dinner theatre play about the Beatles.
“It’s morphed off of that into a unique show about the Beatles, including the stories behind the songs,” explained producer Bill Culp.
From Beatle wigs to Beatle boots, with costume changes that draw on the Ed Sullivan days and the later Shea Stadium concert captured on film, the show attempts to capture the energy that made the four lads from Liverpool international sensations.
“They’re trying to recreate the vibe of the band live,” he explained.
This theatrical show features a combination of European and North American cast members in the roles of John, Paul, George and Ringo. Leading the cast is Yuri Pool, who has been hailed by Beatles promoter Sid Bernstein as “The best McCartney vocalist in the world today.” Ringo Starr will be played by UK native Mark Matthews, now a Canadian citizen and 2010 Juno Award winner, while Rob Kay, best known for his work with Herman’s Hermits, stars as George Harrison. European Colum Henry plays John Lennon.
The evening focuses on the actual live performances of the Beatles, kicking off with their famous 1964 appearance on the Ed Sullivan television show and includes hit songs from every era of The Beatles’ extensive catalogue. In total, more than 30 Beatles songs are featured throughout the evening, including “I Wanna Hold Your Hand,” “Ticket to Ride,” “Yesterday,” “Penny Lane,” “A Hard Day’s Night,” and “Hey Jude,” amongst the many audience favourites.
For some of the more orchestral songs in the later recordings – think of the distinctive piccolo opening to “Penny Lane,” for instance – and the live show, a keyboard player will augment the sound, but will be tucked away behind the equipment – this is no place for another fifth Beatle.
Beatlemania Revisited takes to the stage at the Commercial Tavern Sunday (December 9) at 3 p.m. Tickets are $20, available at the venue, 1303 Maryhill Rd., or by calling 519-648-3644. For more information, visit www.commercialtavern.ca.
