By Karen Meister

New Year’s Eve 2009 was “rockin’ and rollin’” at the Algonquin Arts Theatre in Manasquan. What was all this noise about? It was a Beatles Tribute, The British Are Coming!, performed by the Yesterday touring cast, which has obtained both national and international fame.
By expertly depicting early decades of the Beatles’ music, these four impersonators had the audience on the edge of their seats, singing their favorite songs from the 1960s and 1970s, clapping along to melodies and shouting out familiar phrases.

The movie reels went on one after another, showing various “Beatlemania” from the famous early years when those nice, clean-cut British boys came to our soil with a style all their own. They invaded the scene here in the United States and went on to become musical icons. Many still remember their first TV performance on the Ed Sullivan Show — and that’s really going back in time.

Yesterday, a Las Vegas-based troupe, has been paying tribute to the four famous Beatles since 1986 and has their act down to an exact science. Between the British accents, hairstyles and wardrobe, you can’t help feeling the vibrant music and spirit that John, Paul, George and Ringo left indelibly around the world.

John Lennon was performed by Don Bellezzo, a Las Vegas native and founder of Yesterday. Bellezzo gave a commanding performance as the unique musician and songwriter.

Paul Sacco definitely captured the “boyish” looks and charm of the lead bass guitarist and singer, Paul McCartney. He amazed the fans with several of the Beatles’ cherished songs.

Jim Lett is a perfect George Harrison, staying a bit in the background in his non-assuming manner, but greatly adding his own flavor to the group.

The awesome Ringo Starr was expertly portrayed by Bobby Potter, who captured Ringo’s carefree personality and could belt out any rhythm on the drums.

The foursome brought back some fond memories for all attending this tribute concert. Most of the audience interacted with the performers, who gave us our special piece of musical history that still lives on today.

Who could forget the words to “Help,” “A Hard Day’s Night,” and “Yellow Submarine,” plus dozens of other favorites that received recognition and fame and continue to surface frequently on several media venues.

A big hand goes to all those responsible for such an entertaining evening. All of the countless hours spent planning and preparing by the Algonquin Arts team certainly was recognized and appreciated by those attending this event. Thank you all for the fantastic ending of 2009 and the phenomenal ringing in of the new year.

May 2010 be the best year yet at the Algonquin Arts Theatre! Your vitality and dedication to the arts add so much to the character of Manasquan, “a great place to live and visit” all year round!