Washington concert celebrated

Live at the Washington Coliseum. Photo: Fred Ward

There are so many things happening in the U.S.A. to celebrate the fiftieth anniversary that we can’t begin to cover these events in our blog. But most of the happenings are taking place in New York City, so here’s a guide to those, while we’re going to concentrate on one event which is celebrated both in Washington D.C., and in Los Angeles: The Beatles’ first U.S. concert.

Following their triumphant debut on the Ed Sullivan show on February 9, 1964, the Beatles very first concert in America took place at 8:31 p.m. on Tuesday, February 11, at the Washington Coliseum at 3rd & M Streets, NE.

50 years later, on Tuesday, February 11, 2014, this landmark concert will be reenacted as it occurred at the historic Washington Coliseum, with the iconic performance replicated by tribute band, Beatlemania Now who will play the original set list and then play other Beatles favourites. Presented by the DC Preservation League and Douglas Development Corporation, tickets will be on sale at www.beatlesyesterdayandtoday.com at $45 for general admission standing tickets and $100 for seating.

Doors will open at 6pm; with a selection of goodies from local food trucks and live music performed by Something Wild, an exhibition of Mike Mitchell’s original photographs, which will be on sale with proceeds benefiting the DC Preservation League, as well as other surprises.

The concert will be opened by The Beatles’ original opener Tommy Roe and a 20-minute historic documentary featuring the history of The Washington Coliseum/Uline Arena from its concept and construction through its current and future incarnation.

Website: beatlesyesterdayandtoday.com

Photo: Fred Ward

In Camarillo, “Sessions At The Loft” presents Fred Ward‘s photos from the Beatles concert at the Washington Coliseum in D.C. Some of these have never before been seen in public, and some of them are in colour. The iconic photographs on display are also for sale, and include newly “rediscovered” and uncirculated images not seen in public. All images were created from his original negatives. At the same time, “Sessions At The Loft” are also presenting Beatles memorabilia from the private collection of composer/guitarist Grant Geissman. This event is free and first opens Sunday, February 9, 2014 from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM (PST). 2465 Ventura Blvd., Camarillo, California.

Website: sessionsattheloft.com

Make sure you take a look at their photo section.