BLOOMINGTON, Ind. –The world-renowned cinema organist Dennis James returns for his annual family-friendly spooky spectacular Dennis James Hosts Halloween on Thursday, October 24 at 7 p.m.

 

Bloomington’s favorite musical mastermind and Indiana University alum continues the local Halloween tradition, hosting a night of spooky yet silly fun for all ages. This performance allows the audience to witness Dennis James bring a classic silent film to life. James’ grandiose live accompaniment upon the IU Auditorium’s 4,543 pipe organ creates a unique theatrical experience like no other.

 

This year’s featured silent film will be The Lost World. This 1925 silent dinosaur fantasy is the first film adaptation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s (creator of the character Sherlock Holmes) classic novel. It takes the audience on an animated adventure through a land where prehistoric creatures still roam. The animation in the film is executed with stop motion special effects pioneered by Willis O’Brien, who is additionally known for his work on the original King Kong. The film features Academy Award winner and iconic film star Wallace Beery who stars in the titular role of Professor Challenger.

 

“We are thrilled to welcome back alumnus Dennis James once again to IU Auditorium to get us all in the Halloween spirit,” IU Auditorium Executive Director Doug Booher said. “Jurassic Park and Jurassic World fans are in for a treat with this year’s film being one of the first ever in cinema history to showcase pre-historic creatures roaming the earth.”

 

All patrons are encouraged to arrive early for an all ages costume party before the show, complete with the annual B97 Costume Contest. Participants will get the special chance to strut across the stage in costume and win great prizes such as Lennie’s gift cards, tickets to Chimes of Christmas at IU Auditorium, and a grand prize of a $50 gift card to French Lick Resort.

 

Dennis James Hosts Halloween at IU Auditorium is presented in partnership with Lennie’s. IU Auditorium’s 2019–2020 season is presented by B97, Curry Auto Center, The Herald Times, French Lick Resort, World Arts Inc., and Indiana University Residential Programs and Services.

 

For more information on this performance and the rest of the 2019–2020 season, visit IUauditorium.com.