Downtown LA gains a new silent film-live music experience presented by Arts Brookfield, UnSilent Cinema connects film masterpieces by Charlie Chaplin, Buster Keaton, Fatty Arbuckle and Harry Smith with contemporary LA-based musicians. Outdoor screenings of classic, silent films are accompanied by unique musical scores, commissioned specifically for this series and performed live by their composers. Electronic musicians Daedelus, Jimmy Tamborello, Callie, and Kaitlyn Aurelia Smith (several of whom are long-time Dublab resident DJs) as well as guitar masters Alvin Youngblood Hart and Marc Ribot have each written a score and will be premiering them against the backdrop of selected early 20th century shorts for two nights only this September.

The series grew out of the New York Guitar Festival‘s Silent Films/Live Guitars series, which has commissioned outstanding musicians to compose and perform scores to accompany classic and poignant silent films since 2004. Arts Brookfield partnered with David Spelman, the NYGF’s founder, and LA-based concert producer Rum & Humble, to expand the artistic vision of the series, embracing a wider spectrum of musical genres and producing an annual event in Downtown Los Angeles.

“Early cinema has influenced generations of filmmakers and continues to inspire audiences today. It is impossible to appreciate silent film’s power and charm without recognizing the contribution of musical accompaniment,” says Spelman.
“Arts Brookfield is committed to providing access to all genres of art. Film and contemporary music have been a longstanding part of that mission,” says Debra Simon, Vice President and Artistic Director of Arts Brookfield. “UnSilent Cinema reawakens favorite classic films and provides a platform through which these exciting contemporary composers can showcase new works.”

UnSilent Cinema is free and open to all ages as part of Arts Brookfield’s mission to bring public spaces to life through visual and performing arts. A special Happy Hour in the FIGat7th TASTE Courtyard with a DJ and food specials begins at 5:30 pm. Lotería Grill event bar on the FIGat7th Plaza opens at 7 pm with screenings and live performances at 8 pm. This event takes place Thursday, September 29th and Friday, September 30th in downtown LA. Tickets and reservations are not required and will not be issued. Seating is limited and is first come, first served. More details and full lineup at artsbrookfield.com.