DANBURY, N.H.— All are welcome to come out for a show and some laughs as the silent film era returns to the big screen at Danbury’s Blazing Star Grange Hall. The evening will feature a screening of ‘Conductor 1492’ (1924), a classic silent comedy with live musical accompaniment. Showtime is Saturday, March 17 at 7 PM at the historic Grange Hall, 15 North Road in Danbury. The show is open to the public with suggested $5 donation.

The screening will include live accompaniment by Jeff Rapsis, a New Hampshire-based composer who specializes in creating scores for silent films. ‘Conductor 1492′ follows the exploits of Terry O’Toole (Johnny Hines), a young man who leaves Ireland to make his fortune in 1920s America. After arriving, he gets a job as a conductor on a streetcar and fights off an attempt by crooks to take over the company, all the while pursuing the boss’ beautiful daughter. The Blazing Star program will also include Buster Keaton’s short comedy ‘My Wife’s Relations’ (1922), in which Keaton accidentally marries into an Irish family.
Shown with an audience and live music, films from Hollywood’s ‘silent’ era show their power to delight movie-goers. Using original themes, Rapsis improvises the music live as the films are shown. “When the score gets made up on the spot, it creates a special energy that’s an important part of the silent film experience,” said Rapsis.
For more info, email lisa.m.windsor@nullgmail.com or call 252-4440.