World-renowned Alloy Orchestra Returns to Iowa City for Englert and FilmScene Shows

Billed by Roger Ebert as "the best in the world at accompanying silent films," Alloy Orchestra has quickly become a fall favorite in Iowa City. Packing The Englert Theatre in 2011 for "Metropolis" and again in 2012 for "Nosferatu," this year Alloy treats film fans to two shows to help celebrate the return of a full-time movie theater to downtown with the opening of FilmScene's new cinema.

"Watching a silent film with live accompaniment is a truly unique experience," said FilmScene Director Andy Brodie. "Alloy consistently delivers with their brand of movie magic, which we're delighted to share with our community."

On Wednesday, October 2 at 8pm, Alloy returns to the Englert to perform their live score for Buster Keaton's comic masterpiece "The General."

Set against a meticulous Civil War-era backdrop, "The General"—called "the greatest comedy ever made" by Orson Welles—is an epic true tale of heroism showcasing Keaton's deft screen direction and masterful comic timing. Keaton stars as Johnnie Gray, risking life and limb (Keaton famously did his own stunts) to rescue his sweetheart and beloved railway engine.

Seating for "The General" is reserved. Tickets are $20 for the general public, $18 for students and seniors, and $15 for children 12 and under. On sale now at the Englert box office or midwestix.com.

On Thursday, October 3, FilmScene hosts "An Evening with Alloy Orchestra," featuring the first public screening at its new Ped Mall cinema. Limited to just 70 tickets, the evening begins at 6:30pm with a reception followed by Alloy performing their new score for "He Who Gets Slapped," and ending with a special music-only improv set. Tickets are $30 and available now at the Englert box office or midwestix.com.

"Slapped" (1924) is the first official production from studio Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer. Directed by Victor Sjöström (Seastrom) and starring Lon Chaney, the film is a true treat for cinephiles and a perfect fit for Alloy's unique instrumentation and keen eye.

Alloy Orchestra is a three-man musical ensemble writing and performing live accompaniment to classic silent films. Working with an outrageous assemblage of peculiar objects, they thrash and grind soulful music from unlikely sources. Performing at prestigious film festivals and cultural centers in the US and abroad, Alloy has helped revive some of the great masterpieces of the silent era. Read more at alloyorchestra.com.

For more show details:

http://www.icfilmscene.org/events/the-general-walloy-orchestra/
http://www.icfilmscene.org/events/an-evening-w-alloy-orchestra/