Peterborough recently unveiled a striking tribute to the legendary band, The Beatles, by completing a massive mural on a shop window. This artistic masterpiece commemorates the two occasions when the iconic group graced the city with their performances in the 1960s.
The mural, designed by artists Nathan Murdoch and Tony Nero, showcases The Beatles’ connection to Peterborough, specifically their performances at The Embassy Theatre and their stay at the Bull Hotel in Westgate during that era. Surprisingly, Nathan Murdoch revealed that he was unaware of the band’s visits to Peterborough until the mural project was commissioned by Peterborough Positive.
“The reaction so far has been amazing,” expressed Mr. Murdoch, reflecting on the community’s response to the artwork that now adorns the side of a Poundland store at Hereward Cross in the city center. The mural, inspired by The Beatles’ iconic Abbey Road album cover, was a labor of love for the artists, who faced challenges due to the weather conditions while working on a window canvas.
Bringing a piece of music history to life, the mural not only pays homage to The Beatles’ performances in Peterborough but also captures the essence of the band’s journey from relative obscurity to global fame. The group’s first appearance in Peterborough in December 1962 marked a significant milestone as it was their inaugural UK performance outside of Liverpool.
The decision to paint the mural on a window rather than a conventional wall added a unique dimension to the project, presenting a distinctive set of challenges for Murdoch and Nero. Weather fluctuations, especially temperatures below 5°C, proved to be formidable obstacles for the artists, impacting the drying process of the paint and the overall execution of the artwork.
As part of the community-driven initiative by Peterborough Positive, the mural serves as a beacon of creativity and historical significance, inviting locals and visitors alike to engage with the city’s rich heritage. Peterborough Positive’s chief operating officer, Pep Cipriano, emphasized the transformative power of art in enhancing urban spaces and fostering a deeper connection to the city’s cultural legacy.
The Beatles’ return to Peterborough in March 1963 for another performance at The Embassy Theatre, coupled with their stay at The Bull Hotel, further solidified their bond with the city. During their visit, the band left a playful mark by making handwritten entries in the hotel’s visitor book, revealing quirky expectations for their accommodations.
While working on the mural, Murdoch and Nero drew in the attention of onlookers, sparking nostalgic conversations with individuals who had witnessed The Beatles’ performances in Peterborough decades ago. The artists recounted anecdotes from locals who vividly remembered the band’s journey from being “booed off” during their initial performance to achieving international stardom within a year.
By encapsulating The Beatles’ legacy in a vibrant and visually captivating manner, the mural not only celebrates the band’s musical influence but also serves as a tangible link to Peterborough’s
