The Secret Cinema returns to Glen Foerd for a screening of the silent era classic, “He Who Gets Slapped” (1924), starring Lon Chaney and directed by Victor Sjöström (Victor Seastrom), on Friday, March 7. The screening will also include surprise silent short subjects.
Philadelphia-area organist Don Kinnier will bring this silent movie to life with his accompaniment on Glen Foerd’s recently restored 1902 Haskell pipe organ.
Based on the 1915 play by Russian playwright Leonid Andreyev, “He Who Gets Slapped” follows a scientist whose friend steals his wife and life’s work, leaving him bitter and desperate. He joins a circus as a clown, known only as “HE” (Lon Chaney), whose act revolves around being repeatedly slapped, mirroring his humiliation. Redemption comes when he falls in love with a young bareback rider, Consuelo (Norma Shearer).
Concessions will be available for purchase at a pop-up bar before and after the event, including soft pretzels, soft drinks, beer and wine. General admission is $25, and $20 for students and seniors.
The event will take place in the art gallery on the second floor of Glen Foerd’s gilded-age mansion, which has stair access only.
Doors open at 7 p.m. The show goes from 7:30 to 10 p.m. Glen Foerd is at 5001 Grant Ave.For tickets and more information, visit www.glenfoerd.org/events ••
