Caird Hall to host special Halloween screening of horror classic The Phantom of the Opera
Dundee’s Caird Hall is preparing to host a special Halloween treat later this month, bringing one of cinema’s most famous horror films back to the big screen with live organ accompaniment!
The Phantom of the Opera (1925) will be screened at Caird Hall on Friday 23 October at 7.30pm, as the Friends of the Caird Hall Organ (FOCHO) bring their popular silent film night back to the city.
And with Halloween just around the corner, audiences are being encouraged to get into the spooky spirit by dressing up for the occasion!
A century-old horror classic comes to Dundee
Released in 1925, The Phantom of the Opera is one of the most celebrated films of the silent cinema era, starring legendary actor Lon Chaney as the mysterious Phantom.
Based on Gaston Leroux’s novel, the film tells the story of a disfigured musical genius who lives beneath the Paris Opera House and becomes obsessed with a young opera singer.
More than 100 years after its original release, the film remains a landmark of early horror cinema, remembered for its dramatic atmosphere, elaborate sets and Chaney’s unforgettable portrayal of the Phantom.
For this special Dundee screening, the film will be brought to life with live improvised organ music, recreating the atmosphere of traditional silent film performances.
Live organ accompaniment from Donald MacKenzie
The evening will feature a performance by acclaimed organist Donald MacKenzie, who serves as organist at London’s famous Odeon Leicester Square.
MacKenzie is also the honorary President of the Friends of the Caird Hall Organ and is known for his skill in accompanying silent films through improvised music.
Rather than relying on a recorded soundtrack, the music will be performed live throughout the screening, responding to the action on screen and adding another dimension to the film’s dramatic moments.
The event also offers audiences an opportunity to experience Caird Hall’s historic organ in a particularly atmospheric setting.
With fancy dress encouraged, organisers are hoping to create a memorable pre-Halloween evening for families and film enthusiasts alike.
Tickets and event information
The special screening takes place at Caird Hall on Friday 23 October.
Ticket prices are:
Adults: £13.75, including booking fee
Concessions: £11.75, including booking fee
Friends: £10.75, including booking fee
Students: £5
Accompanied schoolchildren: Free, up to four per order
Additional schoolchildren: £4
An additional £2.50 online transaction fee or £1.50 telephone transaction fee applies, with postage charges where applicable.
The event promises a fantastic opportunity to enjoy a classic piece of cinema history in one of Dundee’s most recognisable venues, accompanied by the powerful sound of live organ music.
The Phantom of the Opera Silent Film Night takes place at Caird Hall on Friday 23 October at 7.30pm, with fancy dress encouraged. Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.dundeebox.co.uk/Online/default.asp?doWork::WScontent::loadArticle=Load&BOparam::WScontent::loadArticle::article_id=8848E274-D627-47AE-9B7C-6899A46D3AE9
