Theatre to show silent film with live accompaniment

DOVER-FOXCROFT —The Center Theatre has announced a special screening of Buster Keaton’s classic 1928 silent film, “Steamboat Bill, Jr.” accompanied by live on piano by Maine’s own Doug Protsik. The event will take place on Sunday, March 26 at 2 p.m.

“Steamboat Bill, Jr.” follows the story of college boy William Canfield Jr. (Buster Keaton) as he reunites with his boat captain father in a Mississippi River town. The film showcases Keaton’s iconic physical comedy and features one of his most famous stunts, where a house facade falls around him while he stands in the precise location of an open window to avoid being flattened.

Doug Protsik, a talented pianist and composer of old-time piano scores for silent movies, will provide live accompaniment for the film. Protsik is a lifelong musician and music educator who is well known in the folk music world. He also serves as the director of Maine Fiddle Camp.

Patrick Myers, the Center Theatre’s executive director, expressed his enthusiasm for the event. 

“We are excited to bring this classic silent film to life with Doug Protsik’s piano accompaniment. This performance will transport the audience back to the golden age of cinema and create a memorable experience for all ages,” Myers said.

Admission for the screening is $10 for general audience members; $8 for students, seniors, and veterans; and $6 for Center Theatre members. Tickets can be purchased online at www.centertheatre.org, by calling the box office at 207-564-8943, or by visiting in person at 20 East Main Street in Dover-Foxcroft.

The Center Theatre is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization with a mission to make arts, education and entertainment accessible to our rural communities to engage and inspire. More information on the Center Theatre and all their activities can be found at www.CenterTheatre.org.