Charlie Chaplin takes centre stage with the Ulster Orchestra
Issue Date: 28th July 2008
In the picture are (L-R) Cecil Russell (HSBC Bank), Charlie Chaplin aka Orla Lonergan, Patrick McCarthy (Ulster Orchestra), David Byers (Ulster Orchestra)
A weekend of Charlie Chaplin films has been announced for Belfast’s Waterfront Hall in December.
Classic silent movies from 1916-17 have been newly-restored and they will be accompanied by the Ulster Orchestra playing film scores especially written by BAFTA-winning composer Carl Davis, who will also be conducting.
“Originally there would have been orchestras accompanying the films – they were never actually silent – but the scores were not written down,” said Davis. “I’ve been involved with the restoration of Chaplin’s own scores for his feature films so I knew what style he would have used … a mixture of music hall and quotes from the classics.”
Six films will be shown – three each evening on Friday 19 and Saturday 20 December at 7.45pm. The 25-minute films were made during Charlie Chaplin’s year with the Mutual Film Corporation, considered by aficionados to be the pinnacle of his output.
Friday’s films mark a new partnership between the Ulster Orchestra and HSBC Bank which is sponsoring that evening. Cecil Russell, Regional Director, Northern Ireland said: “HSBC Bank has long recognised that with success comes a responsibility to give something back to the wider community in which we operate and we are delighted to be able to help the Ulster Orchestra deliver this unique event.”
An evening with Charlie Chaplin and the Ulster Orchestra – the perfect getaway for weary Christmas shoppers!