Media Contact:
Aislinn Hinyup
WYES Promotion Manager
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New Orleans, LA - August 19, 2014 - Host Peggy Scott Laborde, Beatles historian and author Bruce Spizer, retired WTIX DJ Bob Walker, WYES' Marcia Kavanaugh and singer/bandleader "Deacon John" Moore reminisce about The Beatles historic visit to New Orleans in 1964 with a special edition of STEPPIN' OUT. WHEN THE BEATLES INVADED NEW ORLEANS: A STEPPIN' OUT SPECIAL premieres on Friday, August 29 at 7:30 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. on WYES-TV/Channel 12.
Spizer discusses how the different cities were chosen for The Beatles US tour, the band's dramatic arrival to the city, their stay at the Congress Inn, and more. Walker talks about the rivalry between the radio stations WTIX and WNOE, which of them sponsored The Beatles concert and why. Kavanaugh recalls her experience winning a ticket to sit on the field at the concert in City Park Stadium and what it was like to be trampled by a stampede of screaming fans that jumped over the barricades. "Deacon John" attended the concert as well, and he shares his memories of that night sitting in the stands with his wife and enjoying the music. At the conclusion of the special, he sings The Beatles' song "If I Fell."
Rare snapshots from photographer Ted Rozumalski of The Beatles performing on stage were provided by Robert Rozumalski. Also, featured in the special are images of Mayor Schiro and The Beatles, the original proclamation titled "Beatles Day in New Orleans" that all four Beatles signed at their press conference at the Congress Inn, photos of screaming fans, a WTIX flyer that was passed out during and after the concert, an original Beatles concert ticket, as well as footage from the concert and more.
WHEN THE BEATLES INVADED NEW ORLEANS: A STEPPIN' OUT SPECIAL is Produced and Hosted by Peggy Scott Laborde. Kelsi Schreiber is Coordinating Producer. Larry Roussarie is Editor. Tom Gregory is Director. Ashli Richard is Associate Producer.
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