Pianist To Accompany Silent Film 'Faust' At Sierra Madre Playhouse

SIERRA MADRE, CA — The SM Playhouse will present F.W. Murnau’s 1926 silent film “Faust” with live piano accompaniment by Larry Garf and a discussion led by writer and humorist Rich Procter.

The screening is set for 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 13.

Adapted from Goethe’s tale, the film follows a scholar who bargains with Mephisto, trading his soul for youth, power and passion. The German Expressionist production uses elaborate sets, sweeping camera movements and contrasts of light and shadow to explore ambition, temptation and redemption, according to the Sierra Madre Playhouse.

Event organizers said Garf's musical "score underscores every flicker of beauty and despair."

Procter will introduce the film and lead a discussion afterward about Murnau’s filmmaking, the legacy of Expressionist cinema and the story’s enduring appeal.

Visit the playhouse's website for information on tickets.