last night at ochestra hall

last night dave and i went into the city for a night at the symphony. . . ok, not something we do regularly or for that matter, have ever done before. but what made this special was Charlie Chaplin's silent film"Modern Times" was shown - exit organist - enter orchestra! how cool was that?

Chaplin's "Modern Times"
Members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Timothy Brock, conductor
In the last screen appearance of the Little Tramp, the character that brought Charlie Chaplin world fame, the incomparable actor-director created a brilliant comedy about man’s struggle to survive in the industrialized world during the Great Depression.
Modern Times © Roy Export Company Establishment.

there we were - people from all walks of life - watching a film with no color (obviously), very few spoken words, and a plot that looked vaguely familiar - laughing our heads off at the antics and misfortunes of one man against the "machine." not to mention enjoying musical score that Chaplin himself composed for the movie.

i had really forgotten what a great "dancer" (that words hardly justifies Chaplin's incredible movements/body language) and performer he was.

anyway, if you ever get the chance to see a Chaplin film on the big screen - organist or orchestra - make the effort. you will be glad you did.