Silent classic ‘The Phantom of the Opera’ to play with live accompaniment

DOVER-FOXCROFT – The Center Theatre has announced a special screening of Lon Chaney’s classic 1925 silent film “The Phantom of the Opera”, accompanied live on piano by Maine’s own Doug Protsik. The event will take place at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 23. 

“The Phantom of the Opera” tells the story of aspiring young opera singer Christine Daaé who discovers that she has a mysterious admirer intent on helping her become a lead performer. This masked presence is Erik, also known as the Phantom, a horribly disfigured recluse who lives underneath the Paris Opera House. This legendary 1925 silent movie is perhaps most famous for Cheney’s ghastly, self-devised makeup, which was kept a studio secret until the film’s premiere.  

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.

“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 centertheatre.org, by calling the box office at 207-564-8943 or by visiting in person at 20 East Main St..

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.