Brixton’s Ritzy cinema hosts a night of classic cinema and live music

Brixton’s iconic Ritzy cinema is hosting a night of classic cinema and live music.

Brixton Chamber Orchestra (BCO) will present the second instalment of its residency at the cinema, in Coldharbour Lane, Brixton, on November 2, Film Orchestrated: Silent Slapsticks.

The 15-piece orchestra will breathe new life into timeless sketches from comedy legends like Charlie Chaplin and Buster Keaton.

Adding to the allure, René Clair’s surreal masterpiece, Entr’acte, will be screened with its original Erik Satie soundtrack.

What sets this event apart from anything else is the blend of historical soundtracks, live improvisation, and new compositions created for the evening, ensuring a one-of-a-kind experience for the audience.

As a bonus, comedian Darran Griffiths will take the stage to compere the evening, and every ticket includes a free can of beer from Brixton Brewery.

Matthew O’Keeffe, artistic director of Brixton Chamber Orchestra said: “It’s rare to find these on the big screen, and basically unheard of to accompany them orchestrally.

“We’ve tracked down the orchestrated version of Erik Satie’s original music for Rene Claire’s Entr’acte, which is almost as nonsensical as the film.

“We’ve created a reel of very early clips from 1890-1915 containing definitive gags which are developed right through the rest of the programme, and which live on as classic cinematic tropes today.”

Picture: Brixton Chamber Orchestra Picture: Jane Lam