The Who wrapped up the first leg of “The Who Hits Back” North American tour with a smoking hot show at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts last Saturday, May 28. Many who attended multiple shows this tour universally agree it was the best one of the leg. What a memorable way to kick off Memorial Day weekend for those lucky enough to go!
The gorgeous outdoor venue is located in Bethel, New York, on the site of Max Yasgur’s farm and the legendary 1969 Woodstock Music and Arts Fair. This was first time The Who have played there since their famous performance at that festival, although both Pete Townshend and Roger Daltrey have been there since. In 1998, Pete performed a solo set at “A Day in the Garden” festival that was located in a field at the site of the original Woodstock stage, before the opening of the existing performing arts center in 2006. Roger also performed Tommy with his solo band at Bethel Woods in 2018.
The Bethel Woods show capped off an amazing month of shows. The band really picked up steam with each show, and were firing on all cylinders by the time they hit the East Coast shows. So many outstanding moments, especially at their long awaited return to Cincinnati, and performing in front of a sold out audience at their home away from home, Madison Square Garden. The Who's return to Woodstock after 53 years is the perfect way to end this glorious leg. We are all looking forward to their return to North America this fall!
Be sure to check out our "The Who Hits Back" concert pages that contain fabulous photos, videos, articles, and fan reviews for every show. Many thanks to everyone who contributed!
Here are a few stunning photographs and videos taken by Stephen Voyce at the Bethel Woods show. Enjoy!
