University of Virginia Library

Something In Their Way With Words

"The Beatles Away With Words," embodies an attempt at
synthesizing the essence that was The Beatles, a kind of
"monumental memoriam" that captures the group by way of a
multi-media presentation.

Twenty-six separate projectors controlled by a computer and a
360 degree sound system creates this striking production that
permeates the body and mind with music and visual beauty.

Even those not interested in the nostalgic, aesthetic and
musical value of the show should see it just for the technological
triumph. It took one year to unsnarl computer programs and to
synchronize the visual material for the show. Doug Trumbull, who
did the special effects for "2001: A Space Odyssey" lent his
talent and skill for this photo essay.

Seventy-eight minutes of 6,000 slides are divided into three
phases, starting with the beginnings of rock and roll and current
affairs of the time leading to the assassination of President John
F. Kennedy. The second section consists of ten minutes of
"Beatle Mania", which included their early music and newsreels
of their tours, It ends with complete versions of several Beatle
songs, accompanied by slides and films photographed specifically
for these songs.

The visual media covers a variety of subjects, including
political satire, the horrors of war the the threat of nuclear
destruction. The innovative presentation compensates for the
unoriginal topics.

The end-product of the experience is the Impression of
knowing The Beatles personally. Chris Marshall, National
Promotional Director, describes it as similar to being "with Paul
at his home as he wrote a song and you shared his mood."

"Away With Words" is presented by P.K. German of the
University Union. It will be shown on Wednesday, December 13
only at 9 p.m. at University Hall. Advance tickets are $2.00 and
can be found at the usual places, and at the door tickets are
$2.50.