Silent Film - The Black Pirate
Silent Film with live music from the Mighty Wurlitzer by Donald MacKenzie
THE BLACK PIRATE (1926)
100 Years of Swashbuckling Romance, Starring Douglas Fairbanks with Live Wurlitzer Organ Accompaniment by Donald MacKenzie.
Join us for a spectacular centenary celebration of one of silent cinema’s most thrilling adventures — presented as it was meant to be seen and heard.
About the Film
Released in 1926, The Black Pirate is a dazzling swashbuckling romance that showcases Douglas Fairbanks at the height of his athletic brilliance and charismatic charm. Filled with sword fights, daring escapes, and one of the most famous shipboard sequences in film history, this Technicolor silent masterpiece remains a landmark of early adventure cinema.
A Unique Sensory Experience
This isn't just a movie screening; it is a celebration of silent cinema. Now, 100 years after its release, experience it as audiences once did — with a live, improvised score on the Mighty Wurlitzer.
Event Details
- Date: Sunday, 19 April 2026
- Time: 2:30 PM start.
- Location: Kew Bridge Kinema at The Musical Museum
- Ticket Price: £15 Adult, £8 Child
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The Kew Bridge Kinema at The Musical Museum
The Kew Bridge Kinema at The Musical Museum offers a singular cinematic experience as the only repertory series in the United Kingdom to feature live Wurlitzer organ accompaniment for silent film classics.
A Century of Cinematic Tradition In January 1925, the first Wurlitzer organ was introduced to British cinema. Originally engineered specifically to accompany moving pictures, these sophisticated instruments defined the early movie-going experience. Today, a century after their debut, The Musical Museum recreates the atmosphere of cinema’s golden age, allowing contemporary audiences to experience the evocative power of the "halcyon days" of film.
Artistry in Residence We are honored to host Donald MacKenzie as our Silent Film Artist in Residence. Mr. MacKenzie meticulously curates each program and provides a live, improvised score on the "Mighty Wurlitzer" for every screening. His expertise ensures an enthralling and authentic performance that brings these historic films to life.
Curated Programming Our repertoire is carefully selected to offer a balanced mix of celebrated masterpieces and obscure titles that merit rediscovery by modern audiences.
Visitor Information To ensure your attendance, advance booking is recommended for all programs. Our café is available prior to each screening, offering a selection of refreshments and snacks. Most performances also include an interval, providing guests an additional opportunity to enjoy our facilities.