BEATLES MAGAZINE: SUNDAY NIGHT AT THE LONDON PALLADIUM 1964

Monday, 12 January 2026

SUNDAY NIGHT AT THE LONDON PALLADIUM 1964

In January 1964, The Beatles made a triumphant return to Sunday Night at the London Palladium, marking a dramatic shift in their career since their debut on the program just three months earlier.

Their meteoric rise was reflected in their paycheck, which had skyrocketed from £250 to a staggering £1,000 for a single night.

Produced by ATV, the show was a national staple that commanded massive audiences.

The group spent the majority of the day at the venue rehearsing for their headlining slot.

During the live broadcast, which aired from 8:25 pm to 9:25 pm, the "Fab Four" showcased their versatility by participating in a comedy skit with host Bruce Forsyth before delivering a high-energy five-song finale.

Their setlist featured hits like "I Want to Hold Your Hand," "This Boy," and "All My Loving," concluding with the raw power of "Money (That's What I Want)" and "Twist and Shout."

The evening also featured performances by comedian Dave Allen and singer Alma Cogan. As the show reached its climax, The Beatles joined the rest of the cast on the iconic rotating carousel, waving to the audience as the "Startime" theme played.

This occasion was particularly notable as it marked the band's first meeting with Cogan. Following the performance, the group managed a quick getaway through the theater's back exit to attend a gathering at Cogan’s nearby apartment on Kensington High Street.