Experience a Spooky Film Transformation as the Wanamaker Building Becomes a Halloween Theater
The Wanamaker Building is transforming into a Halloween theater with a special pop-up film series. This event showcases a selection of classic silent films curated by film historian Carrie Rickey. The series highlights five iconic films from the 1920s, all accompanied by live organ music, creating a unique cinematic experience.
Spooky Film Schedule at the Wanamaker Building
Beginning this Halloween season, the Pipe Up! series will screen various films each night from October 30 through November 3. The lineup includes:
- Monday, October 30: “Faust,” featuring organist Ian Fraser
- Tuesday, October 31: “The Phantom Carriage,” featuring organist Don Kinnear
- Wednesday, November 1: “Nosferatu,” featuring organist Peter Richard Conte
- Thursday, November 2: “The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari,” featuring organist Peter Richard Conte
- Friday, November 3: “Häxan,” featuring organist Don Kinnear
Legendary Films from the 1920s
The featured films include:
- The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari (1920) – A pioneering horror film by Robert Wiene.
- Nosferatu (1922) – A classic vampire film directed by F.W. Murnau.
- Faust (1926) – Another work by F.W. Murnau, showcasing timeless themes.
- The Phantom Carriage (1921) – Directed by Victor Sjöström, this film significantly influenced filmmaker Ingmar Bergman.
- Häxan (1922) – A documentary-style film by Benjamin Christensen exploring witchcraft.
Live Musical Accompaniment
Each screening will feature a live performance on a theater organ. The Wanamaker Building houses a restored 1929 Wurlitzer organ, originally from the Fox Theatre in Appleton, Wisconsin. This organ provides a distinct sound that enhances the film-watching experience.
Organists will employ various techniques to score the films. Peter Richard Conte, one of the organists, notes that he prepares by viewing each film multiple times before the performance. His goal is to unobtrusively enhance the film’s atmosphere. He emphasizes that the best performances make the audience forget about the organist, focusing entirely on the film.
Event Details
All screenings start at 7 p.m. at the Wanamaker Building located at 1300 Market St. Admission is free, but advance registration is required.
In addition to the film series, Peter Richard Conte will perform live with the Grand Court Organ for a special showing of the 1925 film “The Phantom of the Opera” on November 10 at 7 p.m. This presentation also requires no advance registration.
