Stambaugh Auditorium will present the silent film Phantom of the Opera with organ accompaniment in a hybrid format on Sunday, October 25th at 4:00 PM. The annual event typically fills the Concert Hall with over 1500 guests, but, this year, for the safety of the patrons and staff the event will be different. The event will feature a small live audience in addition to being live-streamed. 

The film, adapted from Gaston Leroux’s 1910 novel, The Phantom of the Opera was originally released in 1925 as a silent horror film. The story follows the disfigured Phantom, played by Lon Chaney, as he causes havoc throughout the Paris Opera House. The destruction and bloodshed are all in the name of love, as The Phantom tries to win the heart of a young opera singer by making her a star. 

Accompaniment to the film will be provided by Organist, Peter Richard Conte on Stambaugh Auditorium’s 1926 E.M. Skinner pipe organ. This is Mr. Conte’s fifth visit to Stambaugh Auditorium to perform on the historic instrument in the renowned Concert Hall. Conte is highly-regarded as a skilled performer and arranger. Known for his brilliant ear for lush tonal color and innovative programming style, Conte is also very talented at accompanying films. Mr. Conte is the Principal Organist of Longwood Gardens, Kennett Square, PA, and Organist/Choirmaster of St. Clement’s Church, Philadelphia. 

To regulate social distancing, a limited number of tickets for the live in-person aspect of the performance will go on sale Monday, September 21st at 10:00 AM. Tickets will cost $10 and include a bottle of water and a bag of fresh popcorn. The live-streamed portion of the event will be free to view on-line, additional details regarding the live-stream will be provided at a later date. For ticket sales for the in-person performance, call 330-259-0555 or go to stambaughauditorium.com. Artist accommodations provided by Courtyard Marriott Youngstown-Canfield. For sponsorship opportunities please contact JoAnn Stock at [email protected] or 330-747-5175.