Big Night Out (ITV 1961-1964, Mike and Bernie Winters)

Variety entertainment series Big Night Out was seen once or twice monthly and mainly appeared  from various seaside resorts. The first short run series (only six episodes) took in the NME Poll Winners Concert and a circus spectacular. Hosts included Paul Andrews (who served as introducer for the second season) and Mike and Bernie Winters (who made the show their own from the third season onward – there were five seasons in total).

There were some specials such as the one devoted to Peggy Lee on Saturday 26 Aug 1961 but mostly the guests were of the calibre of Don Arrol, Kathy Kirby, Lionel Blair, Russ Conway, Diana Dors, Dickie Valentine, Bob Monkhouse and The Beatles at the height of their teenybopper fame.

Also involved were The Lionel Blair Dancers and Bob Sharples with The ABC Television Showband.

The Beatles appeared twice, first on 7 September 1963 and then headlining on 29 February 1964 where the sang five songs – All My Loving, I Wanna Be Your Man, Till There Was You, Please Mr Postman and I wanna Hold Your Hand.

production details
UK / ITV – ABC / 54×50 minute episodes / Broadcast 25 March 1961- 10 April 1965 black and white

Producer: Philip Jones

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