Acrpost: A Project of the Pacific Association of Artist Run Centres

Event Description

Join us for a mesmerizing evening featuring renowned pianist and UVic School of Music faculty member, Bruce Vogt, as he takes you on an unforgettable journey through the golden age of silent films. Vogt masterfully accompanies the silent films of Ernst Lubitsch and Buster Keaton, animating the emotions, laughter and suspense through his improvisations on piano.

Die Puppe (the Doll) is a 1919 German romantic fantasy comedy directed by Ernst Lubitsch and is based on the operetta La poupée by Edmond Audran (1896). Ossi Oswalda stars as both the daughter of a mechanical doll-maker and as one of his dolls, created in her image. When a wealthy baron decrees that his nephew will inherit his fortune if he marries, the reluctant young man decides to fool him by marrying a life-like mechanical doll. You can probably guess what happens next!

Keaton’s short film, The Scarecrow, follows the misadventures of two farmhands, Buster and Joe. Both fall in love with the same woman, leading to comedic competition. Their attempts to win her affection amidst various obstacles in their inventive house, result in hilarious chaos. The film showcases Keaton's trademark physical comedy and ingenious slapstick humor, culminating in a surprising and delightful twist at the end.

This event will showcase the new 20-foot screen and laser projector recently installed in the Phillip T. Young Recital Hall.

Bruce Vogt is a Canadian pianist and teacher who has received praise internationally for his mesmerizing performances, inspiring audiences across Canada and abroad. He has given recitals across Europe, as a soloist and with chamber ensembles, in such major centres as London, Paris and Prague, as well as in venues in Germany, Italy, Slovenia, Bulgaria and Romania.