This was The Beatles’ first performance at the Kingsway Club, situated on the Promenade in Southport, Lancashire. Admission cost two shillings and sixpence.
The Kingsway was more salubrious than many of the dingy ballrooms and jive halls they had previously played in, but manager Brian Epstein was determined to improve their image and have them in suitable venues. He and the promoters also orchestrated a promotional campaign which included local newspaper articles ahead of the date.
The Beatles played at the Kingsway Club on eight occasions, all in 1962. The other dates were: 29 January; 5 and 26 February; 5, 12 and 19 March; and 23 July.
Built in 1931, the Kingsway was a popular venue for live acts from the 1960s through to the 1990s, but closed in 2004. It reopened briefly in 2006 but closed for good the following year. On 6 September 2010 the derelict building was destroyed by fire, and two days later the remains of the building were demolished.
Also on this day...
- 1969: Get Back/Let It Be sessions: day 13
- 1968: Apple opens offices at 95 Wigmore Street, London
- 1966: George and Pattie Harrison hold a press conference
- 1964: The Beatles live: Olympia Theatre, Paris
- 1963: Radio: The Talent Spot
- 1963: Radio: Saturday Club
- 1963: Radio: Pop Inn
- 1962: The Beatles live: Cavern Club, Liverpool (lunchtime)
Want more? Visit the Beatles history section.