The Liverpool Legends are fast becoming Branson Legends, as evidenced by the fact that the group was awarded the highest honor given by Branson Critic Online Magazine – Editor’s Choice for 2007, as well as the Branson Critic Fan Award for Best Band of 2007!! The presentations were made by Chad Ray, representing the magazine, on Friday evening, November 2nd. Before presenting the awards, Chad read a few excerpts from reviews that were written in support of the show:
“What you have here is the cream of the crop out of all the tribute bands….not only are they seasoned musicians, but they also have George Harrison’s sister, Louise….HIS REAL SISTER…….she gave me a Harrison hug……..I will never stop smiling about that…..
It was magical…..and so are these guys….they have put together a show that leaves all the troubles and pressures outside of the Caravelle Theater and lets you go back to a time when the message was peace and love…..
I have been a Beatle fan all of my life and if you are in Branson you have to see this show…..twice……..once to see the best show in Branson and the second time to prove to yourself that you weren’t dreaming…..”
He also quoted a portion of an editor’s review – “I truly admire their many talents, whether it is their singing, joking around, or their amazing musical expertise. I’m especially astounded by the fantastic Beatle sounds they are able to replicate. Beatle fans from all over the country have commented on the realism of the Liverpool Legends.”
Another editor wrote, “These guys have it all down to an art – John, Paul, George, and Ringo are portrayed with stunning accuracy by Kevin, Davey, Marty, and Greg. The resemblance to their respective counterparts is amazing – in appearance, actions, and stage presence.”
The Fab Four, along with Bob Dobro, Bob Rumba, and, of course, Louise Harrison, accepted the awards enthusiastically, yet graciously, thanking Branson Critic, their fans, and those behind the scenes who help to make the show a success. The Lads also thanked Louise for “putting us together,” to which Louise responded, “and for putting up with you!” They also sincerely thanked the Mock family, who own the Caravelle Theater and “helped us out from the get-go – we couldn’t have done it without you. God bless you and thank you very much.”
The Liverpool Legends, comprised of Davey Justice as Paul McCartney, Kevin Mantegna as John Lennon, Marty Scott as George Harrison, and Greg George as Ringo Starr…..deliver a fast paced, fantastic, and truly magical ride through the complete era of the Beatles. Beginning with Bob Rumba’s spot-on portrayal of the legendary Ed Sullivan, the audience is held spellbound throughout the show……from the opening songs of the early 60’s, such as “I Want To Hold Your Hand,” “Hard Day’s Night,” and “Can’t Buy Me Love,” as well as fun tunes like Ringo’s “Yellow Submarine,” complete with a small yellow submarine suspended in the air. The rockabilly hit, “Everybody’s Trying To Be My Baby,” had everybody up and dancing!! And again, at the close of the first half, “Twist and Shout” caused everyone to do just that!!
The second half of the show focused on the psychedelic era of the mid-60’s and featured “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band.” One of the highlights of the evening was the fantastic blinding light show displayed during John’s brilliant performance of “A Day in the Life.”
1968 brought us “Here Comes the Sun,” sung so beautifully by George, “Get Back,” “Revolution,” and, of course, “Hey Jude,” featuring Paul at the piano. No cigarette lighters waving about here, though – these days it’s cell phones!! How times have changed - and yet they haven’t. The Beatles’ music is as popular today as it was 40 years ago. Timeless, to be sure.
The show is interspersed with the comedy of Bob Rumba as Ed Sullivan, and Bob Dobro as “Paul’s grandfather,” who also does a fantastic job performing percussion, orchestrations, and sound effects on the keyboard. Film clips of “Brits” singing their renditions of Beatles songs are hilarious. And one cannot say enough about the skills that are shown in playing the authentic vintage musical instruments that are used by this unbelievably talented band.
This show will make you scream, it will make you laugh. It will make you want to get up and dance, even if you have two left feet; and it will make you want to sing, even if you can’t carry a tune in a basket! You won’t be able to sit still, and you won’t be able to stop smiling – it just might be the happiest place in Branson!!
Since The Liverpool Legends hit town nearly two years ago, their popularity has skyrocketed. Congratulations from all of us at Branson Critic to everyone involved in the success of this incredible show. Marty said in his portion of the acceptance speech, “It’s an honor to be here and we’re here to stay. We’ll be here next year and the year after that and the year after that!” That is good news, indeed, for Branson entertainment. Our thanks, too, to Louise Harrison and to the Mock family, for bringing us this fabulous show. This one is definitely a keeper!!
Between the time the above-mentioned awards were presented and the time this article was written, there has been a change in the location of the show, formerly at the Caravelle Theater, for the new 2008 season. The Liverpool Legends will open on April 1st at the Starlite Theater – we wish them continued success with this wonderful show in their new venue.
Shirley Hendricks, Editor
Pic Collages by Sandi McKim