Recreating the swinging sixties
The Complete Beatles, one of the UK’s best know fab four tribute bands, will headline a one-off concert to help the fight against drugs
Some of us are forever talking about things that need to change in the society we live in. Herein lies the basic problem: more often than not, we spend so much time chatting about things that bother us, that we forget we can only actually instigate positive change through inspired action.
One of the problems that so often become the focus of attention in adult conversation is teenage drug use and all its resulting dangers. If, however, you spend your time wishing that your children could venture out to a party or club in a safe environment, it will remain nothing more than a wish. Cyprus may be considered a safe country compared to its European counterparts, but if we keep pushing certain serious issues under the carpet, they will only get worse.
One woman who has taken up the issue and is adamant when it comes to facilitating change is Janice Ruffle. In an attempt to combat the increase in drug trafficking and abuse island wide, Janice launched a Drug Awareness-Zero Tolerance campaign last year. The campaign has now culminated in a ‘Party on the Pitch’ concert to take place at Kiniras Sports Centre in Yeroskipou on September 29.
If you’re a Beatles fan, you’ll be delighted to hear that The Complete Beatles will be jetting in from the UK especially for the event. Other acts will include Andrew Oliver as Elton John, as well as performances by Judith Evans and John Edwards.
As a concert with a special mission, Janice explains that she began her campaign when she realised the extent to which the drug problem was worsening here on the island. “We need to make youngsters more aware of the dangers of drugs and far more educational programmes need to be implemented that outline the harsh realities,” Janice says.
Part of Janice’s drug awareness campaign, currently in progress, is to form a Paphos-based victim and family support group with professional qualified counsellors. “We also want to establish a 24-hour help line for the victims and their families,” she says. The upcoming concert will hopefully pave the way for even more events and campaigns that touch on these sensitive issues. “It shouldn’t be a taboo,” Janice adds, “problems when it comes to drugs need to be out in the open and confronted.” Stands promoting drug awareness with educational directives will be on site at the concert, with informative leaflets in both English and Greek available.
When it comes to entertaining the crowds, The Complete Beatles will transport the audience back to the Swinging Sixties, creating the ultimate feel good factor. Their reputation and professionalism puts them in constant demand, and they are arguably one of the UK’s biggest Beatles tribute bands today as they constantly travel up and down the country to give shows to packed houses. They have performed with Gerry and the Pacemakers in the critically acclaimed theatre show, Back to the Cavern, and have also supported The Swinging Blue Jeans, The Merseybeats, Hermans Hermits and The Fourmost. With the famous Beatles humour, ‘mop top’ hairstyles, authentic period costumes and vintage instruments, their performance here in Cyprus should really be one to remember.
But let’s not forget the other performers that will be gracing the stage. While The Complete Beatles will have you humming away to hits from days gone by, Andrew Oliver will be wowing crowds with favourite Elton John songs. From ‘Candle in the Wind’ to ‘I’m Still Standing’ and ‘Crocodile Rock’. It’s bound to be a spectacular performance by the man who received rave reviews in the past when he performed in the UK. In a stunning portrayal of the star, Andrew fully involves the audience with lots of singing, clapping and humour. What’s more, he wears rather outrageous costumes formally owned by Elton himself, including the flashy glasses and trademark earring. Judith Evans and John Edwards will be adding to the spectacle, with their voices transporting you into a magical world.
Party on the Pitch
Open-air live entertainment show with The Complete Beatles from the UK, Andrew Oliver, Judith Evans and John Edwards. All in support of a special ‘Drug Awareness- Zero Tolerance’ campaign. September 29. Kiniras Sports Centre, Yeroskipou, Paphos. 2pm until late. Pre-sale tickets, adults £8, children up to 12 yrs £4. Tel: 96-340777/ 99-066276
