BLOOMINGTON, Ind. – World-renowned cinematic organist Dennis James returns with a special “mystery night” for his annual family-friendly spooky spectacular Dennis James Hosts Halloween on Wednesday, October 25 at 7:30 p.m. The evening will start with a live radio reenactment followed by a pair of Sherlock Holmes-themed films.

Back by popular demand for a second-straight year, James will provide the soundtrack on IU Auditorium’s 4,543 pipe organ behind a live reenactment of an episode of the 1940s radio drama drams Inner Sanctum titled “The Voice on the Wire.” Live actors, including students from IU’s Department of Theatre, Drama, and Contemporary Dance, will take to the IU Auditorium stage to act out the suspenseful radio drama.

 

James will then present his traditional silent films with his accompaniment for a 1928 classic cartoon of Felix the Cat in “Sure Locked Homes,” followed by the 1924 thriller Sherlock Jr. starring Buster Keaton.

 

“Every October, we can’t wait for this long-standing Bloomington tradition to take place,” said IU Auditorium Executive Director Maria Talbert. “We are again thrilled to have live actors as part of the evening again this year, including students from IU’s Department of Theatre, Drama, and Contemporary Dance. Dennis is a fixture of IU Auditorium, and we look forward to a night of mystery with him and our guest performers.”

 

B97 Costume Parade

All patrons are encouraged to arrive early for an all-ages costume parade with a chance to win $100 to Pizza X and tickets to a future Auditorium show! Before the show, anyone in costume can line up and parade across the IU Auditorium stage in front of the audience. Everyone who participates will be entered into a live drawing for prizes and the winner will be announced before the show begins.

Dennis James Hosts Halloween at IU Auditorium is presented in partnership with Crumble Coffee and Bakery. IU Auditorium’s 2023–2024 season is presented by Cook Medical, Curry Auto Center, The Herald Times, Upland Brewing Company, World Arts Inc., and B97.