The Beatles Story have teamed up with charity Nordoff Robbins and instrument manufacturer Höfner to celebrate Paul McCartney’s 80th birthday with the launch of a dedicated donation station and unique art installation.
Kicking off Macca’s 80th celebrations, The Beatles Story has created a specially dedicated area within its Fab4 Café at the Royal Albert Dock, for visitors to send their personal messages and digitally sign Paul’s birthday card, along with the chance to donate to one of his key charities, Nordoff Robbins.
Nordoff Robbins stand for music and believe in the value of music for all people in society. Their vision is to live in a world where, through music therapy, human potential is recognised regardless of profound disability, illness, or social exclusion. Supporting thousands of people in centres around the UK, the charity works in partnership with a wide range of organisations including care homes, schools and hospitals.
Sandy Trappitt, Head of Partnerships at Nordoff Robbins said, “At Nordoff Robbins Music Therapy, we want to live in a world where everyone can thrive through the power of music. We all know the impact on the world the Beatles had through the power of music, so we’re absolutely delighted that the Beatles Story have chosen to support Nordoff Robbins. We hope it leads people to connect to the value of music and recognise its importance for their emotional health and wellbeing.”
Paul McCartney himself is a supporter of Nordoff Robbins, and the Beatle first visited the charity’s London centre in 1986. In 1988, Paul received a Silver Clef Award, in recognition of his work with them and in the same year he donated an autographed Höfner bass guitar.
The Beatles-themed exhibition will commemorate this milestone occasion by unveiling a unique art installation in partnership with iconic guitar manufacturer Höfner, which will be situated at the entrance to the award-winning attraction. It is hoped that launching the art installation around Paul’s birthday will help extend celebrations and prolong the spotlight on his charities.
Mary Chadwick, General Manager at The Beatles Story said, “All of us at The Beatles Story are incredibly proud to be supporting Nordoff Robbins and Meat Free Monday, two causes that are close to Paul McCartney’s heart, in his 80th year. We’re very excited for everybody to see the art installation we’ve been working on, and to have the opportunity to sign our birthday card for Paul. On behalf of everybody at The Beatles Story, we would like to wish Sir Paul McCartney a very happy 80th birthday!”
The Beatles Story and Fab4 Café will also be supporting Meat Free Monday, an initiative established by Paul, Mary and Stella McCartney in 2009, encouraging people to cut meat from their diet for just one day a week. Visitors can enjoy 20% off vegetarian sandwiches, vegan cakes and milk alternatives every Monday. For more information, please visit the website.
