Since we started attending Yesterday and Today, an interactive Beatles show, there have been familiar things and new things. The McGuigan Brothers (and now Billy’s son Ciaran), have been entertaining the Omaha area audiences for quite a few years now. The pandemic changed some dates, and now, they are at a great facility downtown called the Slowdown. It’s perfect for them. Hard to believe it’s been nine years since we started going to see them. Sure, we’ve attended nine years in a row, but the show is totally different every time. If the audience doesn’t have fun, it’s on them. Kevin Klimowski attended over 40 times over the years. I believe him, too. Always nice to run into him at a show, but I missed him last night.
The addition of the saxophones and strings was beautiful. Billy adds that touch every chance he gets. Most of the music from that era has a full orchestra recorded. I remember the sounds we took for granted with our music back then. To hear it again live is the best. Many memories are in that room with the band every night. I think if we could thank the person responsible for this treasure of Omaha, it may sound something like this:
Dear Bill,
The folks of Omaha want to thank you for being such a force behind your sons that helped fuel their love of the Beatles, which resulted in the unbelievable show running several weeks. As you know, they perform every year in Omaha and also take it on the road. They’re international stars! And you started that! You also taught them what family is and how the members support one another. You taught them to come in for a group hug, and remind them they can get through anything Together. They showed that when they lost you, (way too soon). They’ve had many life events where they’ve helped each other, and get through it, Together.
We know you have the best seat in the house for every concert wherever they are in the world. We’ve had the pleasure of not only your sons performing, but now grandson Ciaran is becoming a force with his dad and uncles. His guitar playing is quite respectable, so much so he’s playing Clapton’s part of “While My Guitar Gently Weeps.” He is incredible. And we can’t believe he’s only 14. He’s the product of hard work, talent, and great teaching. It all shows. I cannot wait to see how he continues his growth musically, and as a person. Those crazy uncles, Dad, Jay, and Max will help him learn to navigate the world with more McGuigan wisdom. Several of your other grandchildren are becoming well acquainted with acting, music, singing, and art. Collectively (and individually), their talents are huge. See what you started? It’s a great thing.
I’ll share videos below. We’ve attended so many years in a row. And we’ll keep attending as long as we’re physically able. We’ll most likely see your great-grandchildren perform in the arts. Thank you. From the bottom of our hearts.
A Grateful Omaha
Matthew McGuigan and Jay Hanson
Folks, sorry I can’t recall this song. I still included it because of the guitar playing. He is only 14. What a bright future! Most kids that age wouldn’t want to put in that much hard work to achieve this. Good job, Ciaran!
If you’re in the SlowDown’s area in Downtown Omaha, tonight and tomorrow night are the last two performances, if there are tickets left. Getcha some!
In another ten years, maybe it will be called, “Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow.” Rave On Productions. McGuigan Arts Academy. A treasure for Omaha. Lucky us. Thanks, guys! See you next year, and at all the productions in between.
Kathy Raabe 