The Fab Four, an internationally acclaimed Beatles tribute band, rolled through Hershey PA on Thursday with an emphatic blast from the past. Fans of all ages were treated to faithful renditions of songs spanning the band’s discography, with all vocals and instruments played live on stage. This tour’s cast currently features Neil Candelora as Paul McCartney, Ron McNeil as John Lennon, Robbie Berg as George Harrison, and Erik Fidel as Ringo Starr- all wickedly talented musicians and actors not only looking the part but playing, singing and even moving just like their Liverpool counterparts.
For many fans, tribute bands are their only way to experience beloved artists who can’t be seen anymore; this is especially true for fans of The Beatles, as even if one was fortunate enough to have seen them live, over half of their albums were produced after the band stopped performing live altogether. But in the Hershey Theater that night, Beatles devotees got to experience what it might have been like if they hadn’t withdrawn into the studio. Hundreds upon hundreds of voices joined in with Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band as they sang in full shining regalia.
One audience member, whose friend group all dressed in their very own Sgt Pepper’s uniforms, highlighted The Fab Four’s attention to giving fans a special experience.
“I feel like they’re all young and alive and they’re serenading me.” He said during intermission, later adding, “They’re so faithful to actual Beatles performances and any casual or super fan should definitely check them out!”
Rhiley, another concertgoer who was initially only attending to keep their friend company had this to say: “Even as a casual fan, the experience was magical. It was like I was actually seeing the Beatles in their prime. Erik as Ringo was my favorite! He really captured his essence.”
A superfan got to participate in the show, playing tambourine for one song and later being brought up on stage to present art to the band. This fan, Shawna, later said:
“They always make the show fun and interactive for the fans! I got to talk to them briefly when they let me on stage for a picture and they were so kind. I bumped into George’s guitar and told him sorry, and he jokingly said “No you’re not.” Shawna laughs. “John actually remembered me from January and thanked me for coming back! The Fab Four kill it every time, they might actually be the reincarnation of The Beatles, and I think they truly love and appreciate their fans! They even let me play the tambourine for them during Day Tripper, which is a memory I’ll cherish forever!”
Having been to a stop of this tour as a fan in the audience myself, I can attest that they make everyone feel special and seen. It was the only concert I’ve experienced up close where I didn’t feel any trace of competition from other fans; everyone was happy when others had a special moment with the band, and we were all sharing the same moment and feeling of unity. I could go on and on in great detail about everything that made this show a delight, but some things should be experienced without any spoilers.
There’s still a chance to catch The Fab Four if you haven’t yet! Upcoming dates and tour info can be found on their site.