BLOOMINGTON, Ind. – Bloomington’s favorite musical mastermind returns to kick off Homecoming early for his annual performance of Dennis James Hosts Halloween, this year featuring a silent film and radio drama both titled Waxworks, on October 16 at 7:30 p.m.

 

James, an Indiana University graduate and a world-renowned cinematic organist, will provide the soundtrack on IU Auditorium’s 4,543 pipe organ for the film and a live radio reenactment.

 

“It isn’t Halloween until IU’s own legendary cinema organist Dennis James returns to our stage for his annual spine-tingling event,” said IU Auditorium Executive Director, Maria Talbert. “Featuring live organ accompaniment to a silent film and a recreated live radio show featuring professional and IU student actors, the evening will blend cinematic and theatrical thrills into one of Bloomington’s most beloved traditions.” 

 

The live onstage portrayal of an old-time radio thriller titled Waxworks will kick off the evening and will be performed by actors, including students from IU’s Department of Theatre, Drama, and Contemporary Dance. This episode comes from a classic radio series titled Suspense, which was one of the most popular and successful radio programs during its run of over 900 episodes, spanning 1946-1962.

 

James will conclude the evening with the backing soundtrack to a screening of a 1924 German silent horror film also titled Waxworks that ties three stories together in an anthology format with the final segment featuring Jack the Ripper.

 

Education and Engagement Opportunities

 

Pre-Show Talk with IU Professor Jeffrey Smith 

October 16: 6:30–7:15 p.m., Fine Arts 015

Arrive early before the performance for a pre-show talk with Jeffrey Smith, a professor of practice in organ at the Jacobs School of Music. His presentation is titled “Pipe Organs of the Silver Screen.” This is a free event and open to public. Those interested are encourage to RSVP here.

 

B97 Costume Parade

October 16: 7:20 p.m., on stage

All patrons are encouraged to arrive early for an all-ages costume parade with a chance to win $50 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.

 

Post-Show Q&A with Dennis James

October 16: at conclusion of performance, on stage

After the show is over, ticket holders are invited to make their way toward the stage for a fun and insightful Q&A with Dennis James himself.