The Lerner Theatre is marking its centennial year by inviting the community to step back in time to the silent firm era.
On Nov. 24, the theatre is offering a free screening of Buster Keaton’s The Navigator. The silent film event will feature The Lerner’s historic 1924 Kimball Pipe Organ played by Clark Wilson.
The event recreates The Lerner’s opening day in 1924. On that day, the theatre screened Buster Keaton’s newest photoplay alongside a live accompaniment on the theatre’s new pipe organ.
“Over the last hundred years, this enduring theater has played host to countless special events, ranging from silent films in the 1920's, to Elco movie premieres in the '80's and unforgettable concerts and ballroom celebrations, more recently,” said Danny Reynolds community outreach chair for The Lerner 100th Anniversary, in a press release.
Reynolds called The Lerner an iconic fixture of the community.
“If Elkhart residents, whether current or former, were to close their eyes, and envision Elkhart – past, present or future – they are likely to see the Lerner as the beat of the city with a heart,” Reynolds said.
The Lerner’s organ is one of only two Kimball Organs still installed in its original home. Unlike regular pipe organs, theatre pipe organs, such as The Lerner's Kimball, rose to fame in the 1920's. They were designed to replicate the sound of a full symphony. The organ has three keyboards, an upright piano, dozens of instruments, over 1,100 pipes and 6 miles of connective wires.
At the screening, costumed ambassadors from Premier Arts, The Lerner’s resident theatre company, will offer a glimpse into opening day in 1924. The event will also feature The Lerner’s annual holiday window displays, a visual tribute to the theatre’s legacy.
As a part of the event, guests can share their memories of The Lerner. The Elkhart County CVB will provide complimentary popcorn.
The screening kicks off a year-long celebration of the theatre’s centennial.
“The Lerner Theatre holds a special place in our community’s history, and we are excited to help shine a spotlight on its legacy as we look forward to a future full of culture, entertainment and shared memories,” Jon Hunsberger, Elkhart County CVB executive director, said.
The free screening will take place 2:30 p.m. Nov. 24 at The Lerner, 410 South Main St., Elkhart.
