Silent Movies Made Musical

The Friends of Music Hall presents silent films accompanied by the Albee Theatre Mighty Wurlitzer organ live, in-person in the Music Hall Ballroom. Two showings are set for Thursday, April 7, 2022 at 10:30 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.  The popular concert series brings back renowned organist and arranger Clark Wilson. He will accompany a pair of romantic silent comedies, THE CAMERAMAN and MABEL AT THE WHEEL.

THE CAMERAMAN (1928) is a comedy classic featuring the legendary film comedian, Buster Keaton (1895-1966). He plays a sidewalk tintype photographer who falls hard for Sally, a secretary from MGM’s newsreel department, played by Marceline Day (1908-2000). To win her attention, he abandons portrait photography and tries to become an MGM news cameraman. Despite his initial incompetence, Sally takes to him although another cameraman also has designs on her. 

MABEL AT THE WHEEL (1914) is a comedy short directed by and starring Mabel Normand (1893-1930). She plays a lively young lady who’s dating a racecar-driving boyfriend. The film’s villain, played by the legendary Charlie Chaplin, kidnaps the driver and puts Mable “at the wheel.” Hijinks ensue as she wins out over Chaplin’s continual sabotage. Norman was a cinematic pioneer, directing 26 films before her untimely death from tuberculosis in 1930 at age 36. 

All seats for performances at Music Hall’s ballroom are reserved. Tickets are $32, with discounts for groups of 40 or more. Reservations can be made by calling 513-621-ARTS (2787), online via CincinnatiArts.org, or at the ticket offices in Music Hall or the Aronoff Center. The number for group sales: 513-977-4157.

Guests are required to wear masks at all times in Music Hall, regardless of vaccination status. Ticket holders 12 years of age and older must show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test for entry. A corresponding photo ID also will be required for individuals 18 years of age and older. Ticket holders under age 12 are not required to show proof of vaccination but must wear a mask at all times.