Charlie Chaplin's THE KID with Live Improvised Organ Music by Peter Krasinski at Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral

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2. Charlie Chaplin's THE KID with Live Improvised Organ Music by Peter Krasinski

Friends of the Erben Organ presents an event not to be missed: a unique screening of THE KID by Charlie Chaplin. Celebrating the iconic film's 100th anniversary, PETER KRASINSKI, acclaimed silent film accompanist, brings the film to life on the magnificent 1868 Henry Erben pipe organ. A landmark event, it is the first time the Erben has ever accompanied a film in its 153-year history.In the era of silent films, musical accompaniment was improvised in real-time as the movie unfolded on the screen. No two film presentations were alike. This unique art from a bygone era lives on in the masterful improvisations of Peter Krasinski. Charlie Chaplin's first feature-length comedic drama, THE KID, celebrates its 100th anniversary this year. Since it is all live, your presence and reactions are all part of this special experience.Peter Krasinski will engage the full musical resources of the historic 1868 Henry Erben organ to help bring the movie to life. This is Charlie Chaplins first full-length feature, and it has secured a solid place in the pantheon of cinematic masterpieces. A century later, it still delights audiences of all ages.BEFORE THE FILM: ORGAN OVERTURE, PROJECTED ON-SCREENBefore the film starts, Peter Krasinski will play a short overture on the historic Henry Erben organ. This will be projected onto the large screen, so that the audience can enjoy seeing Mr. Krasinski at the Erben's keyboards.ABOUT THE FILMThe story is timeless: a woman decides, after much self-struggle and soul searching, to abandon her baby in the backseat of an automobile with a hand-written note attached. Assuming that it would be taken care of by the wealthy owners of the home nearby, she has no idea that the baby, by way of a comedy of errors, would end up being brought up by a kind-hearted but simple tramp, played by Charlie Chaplin.As time progresses through the movie, the focus does not only stay on the child, (played brilliantly by Jackie Coogan) and his new parent, but also presents to us the birthfather of the child, follows the childs mother and her career, and bestows a generous smattering of American characters offered through the lens of the day. As time progresses, the plot becomes increasingly involved, poignant, heart rending, hilarious and ridiculous--and always remains a human story.Not to be overlooked is the fact that this film, exactly 100 years old this year, portrays an America full of diversity, hope, energy and tragedy: indeed, a presentation for our own time and our own thoughtful consideration. -- Peter KrasinskiPlease Note: In accordance with Key to NYC, we will require attendees to show proof of at least one dose of the Covid vaccine. Masks required. All event staff and performers are vaccinated. We will have sanitizer and face coverings available for those who need them.