FOLLOWING the Beatles in York letters, Mark Lewishon's superb Beatles Live book says that the Fabs played four times in 1963 in York - all at the Rialto. Firstly, February 27 on a package tour with headliner Helen Shapiro, who didn't perform due to illness. They penned their next single From Me To You on the tour bus journey from York to the next gig in Shrewsbury.
They next appeared on March 13, supporting on a package tour with Chris Montez and Tommy Roe. This was a unique performance at the Rialto, the Beatles appearing as a three piece! John Lennon was suffering from 'flu and had to drop out. Reports state the group "coped wonderfully in the absence of their lead singer".
Third date, May 29, 1963, on a tour that originally had the Fabs playing before Roy Orbison - but such was their popularity that they were closing the shows by the end of the tour. The book includes an Evening Press review of this third York show by Stacey Brewer.
The group appeared for the fourth and final time at the Rialto on Novem-ber 27, 1963. Prior to this performance, The Beatles had appeared on Granada TV's Scene at 6.30.
At neighbouring venue The Cat's Whiskers, other notable acts to have appeared include The Sweet, The Bay City Rollers and The Jam.
It is a shame City of York Council refused to consider the musical connections with these buildings before deciding to bulldoze. At least auction the fixtures for charity!
Nick Jackson,
Markham Crescent, York.
Updated: 11:47 Friday, February 16, 2001
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article