Center Theatre to show silent film with live accompaniment

DOVER-FOXCROFT – The Center Theatre has announced a special screening of Charlie Chaplin’s classic 1925 silent film “The Gold Rush”, accompanied live on piano by Maine’s own Doug Protsik. The event will take place at 2 p.m. on Sunday, April 28.

“The Gold Rush” was written, produced and directed by Charlie Chaplin and stars Chaplin in his Little Tramp persona. His famous rogue figure plays a gold-digger as a brave optimist determined to face all the pitfalls associated with the search for gold. “The Gold Rush” was critically acclaimed upon its release and continues to be one of Chaplin’s most celebrated works. Chaplin himself cited it several times as the film for which he most wanted to be remembered. 

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.

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

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

The Center Theatre is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization with a mission to engage and inspire by making arts, education and entertainment accessible to our rural communities.