Yesterday and Today: The Interactive Beatles Experience to be inducted into the Nebraska Music Hall of Fame, Class of 2026
Yesterday and Today Band: (L-R)
Ciaran McGuigan, Aaron Slagle, Ryan McGuigan, Billy McGuigan, Matthew McGuigan, Darren Pettit, Brandon Bakke
Since its debut in Omaha in July 2007 at the Howard Drew Theatre at the Omaha Community Playhouse, Yesterday and Today: The Interactive Beatles Experience has captivated audiences across the country. Created by brothers Billy, Matthew, and Ryan McGuigan as a tribute to their late father, the show celebrates the Beatles’ music as the soundtrack to our lives, connecting audiences through memories, requests, and personal stories. The show invites audiences to share why they chose their favorite songs, making each performance a unique, interactive experience.
Yesterday and Today became the longest-running and highest-grossing show in Howard Drew Theatre history, running every holiday season until 2020. In 2021, it moved to the Slowdown, where it continues its annual Thanksgiving–December run. Beyond Omaha, the show tours nationally, selling out theaters, breaking box office records, and garnering rave reviews. It is a two-time Las Vegas headliner, recipient of an Omaha Entertainment & Arts Award, and was handpicked by George Shapiro’s family to perform at his memorial service on the iconic Paramount Lot in Hollywood.
Billy McGuigan, creator and co-founder, was previously inducted into the Nebraska Music Hall of Fame as a solo artist, and this year, the brothers’ groundbreaking show receives the honor collectively. There is even a Bill McGuigan Day in Omaha, celebrated each September 10th, the “One After 909”, commemorating the incredible musical legacy Bill Sr. left behind through his sons.
The McGuigan Brothers, Billy, Matthew, and Ryan, perform alongside their talented band: Brandon Bakke on drums, Aaron Slagle on guitar, Darren Pettit on saxophone and keys, and Ciaran McGuigan on guitar and vocals. Together, they continue to offer audiences a celebration of music, memories, and connection that transcends the typical tribute experience.
Yesterday and Today returns to Omaha’s Slowdown November 27–December 29, 2026. Tickets go on sale in August. For ticket information and dates, visit billymcguigan.com/slowdown.
The Nebraska Music Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony is scheduled for September 27 at Stocks n Bonds, and will feature a performance by Yesterday and Today. For more information and tickets, visit nebmusichalloffame.org.
Billy McGuigan was inducted into the Nebraska Hall of Fame, September 10, 2023.
Billy McGuigan, a highly accomplished entertainer renowned for his internationally touring shows, including Rave On! The Buddy Holly Experience, Yesterday and Today: The Interactive Beatles Experience and Billy McGuigan's Pop Rock Orchestra, will be honored with induction into the Nebraska Music Hall of Fame. With a career spanning over three decades, Billy's exceptional talent, innovative productions, and energetic performances have solidified his position as one of the industry's most revered artists.
From his teenage years, Billy exhibited a captivating presence and quickly gained recognition for his spontaneous performances. Starting in 1992 during his time at Bellevue East High School, he became involved in "Teen Improv". This early experience set the stage for his magnetic stage presence and marked the beginning of his career. While pursuing acting in his twenties, Billy also nurtured his musical talents. Joining a band in the late 90s reignited his passion for performing and solidified his path as a versatile entertainer.
In 2002, Billy seized a career-defining opportunity, stepping into the iconic role of Buddy Holly in the production Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story, staged at the Omaha Community Playhouse. Billy's transformational portrayal propelled him into the national spotlight, earning widespread acclaim and capturing the attention of audiences and critics alike.
At the core of Billy's musical journey lies the influence of his father, who introduced him to the timeless melodies of The Beatles at a young age. Alongside his brothers, Billy spent countless hours strumming an out-of-tune guitar, practicing songs from their well-worn Beatles chord book. The loss of their father to leukemia in 1996 deepened their connection to the music he had imparted, fueling the creation of Yesterday and Today: The Interactive Beatles Experience.
Billy's contributions to the arts have been recognized with numerous awards and accolades. Among them are the Spotlight Award for Best Actor in a Musical, the Omaha Entertainment and Arts Award for Yesterday and Today and the Midland Business Journal's 40 under 40 award. Additionally, Billy was honored with the CPACS Alumni Award for Excellence in Public Service, presented by the Faculty and Staff at the University of Nebraska at Omaha.
Beyond his accomplishments on stage, Billy is committed to nurturing the next generation of artists. He established the Bill McGuigan Scholarship, providing financial assistance to graduating students in Bellevue Public Schools pursuing an arts-related education. In 2021, he founded the McGuigan Arts Academy, a year-round institution offering classes, camps and lessons that teach life skills through the arts.
Reflecting on his induction into the Nebraska Music Hall of Fame, Billy expressed, "It is a tremendous honor to be included among Nebraska's greatest musicians. I am humbled and grateful for this recognition, and it serves as a testament to the power of music in connecting people and creating memories."