Silent film night - Phantom of the Opera (1925) with thrilling live organ by Aaron Hawthorne at St Lawrence Jewry.

Step into a world of shadow, suspense, and soaring sound at an unforgettable Silent Film Night in the stunning surroundings of St Lawrence Jewry. This special event brings the 1925 cinematic masterpiece 'The Phantom of the Opera' back to life.

On Tuesday 27th (see alternative listing for tickets) and Wednesday 28th October 2026, as darkness falls over the City of London, the historic Guild Church will set the stage for an evening of gothic drama and atmospheric storytelling. The film, featuring the haunting performance by Lon Chaney, will be accompanied live on the church’s renowned Klais organ, filling the space with a powerful, immersive sound that transforms the screening into something truly extraordinary.

At the heart of the experience is the celebrated and international award winning organist Aaron Hawthorne, whose masterful performance will breathe new life into every flicker of the film. From delicate, suspenseful notes to thunderous crescendos, the music will mirror every twist of the Phantom’s tale, drawing you deeper into the mystery, romance, and terror unfolding on the screen.

Guests can expect more than just a film screening. This is a fully immersive experience: the beauty and grandeur of this historic church, the visual artistry of silent cinema, and the raw emotional power of live music combining in perfect harmony. Arrive early for a good seat as the doors open at 6:15pm to soak in the atmosphere, take in the architecture, and settle into your seat with a drink from the bar before the performance begins at 7pm.

Whether you’re a lover of classic cinema, a fan of live music, or simply looking for a unique and memorable night out, this event offers something truly special. It’s a rare chance to experience silent film as it was meant to be seen; alive, thrilling, and captivating.

*Aaron Hawthorne is a Scottish organist based in North Lanarkshire. A graduate of the University of Glasgow (MA Hons, Music, 2019), he appears regularly in performances across the United Kingdom, continental Europe and the United States, performing concert programmes and improvised accompaniments to silent cinema. In 2019, following an appearance at the American Theatre Organ Society’s annual convention in Rochester, New York, he won the international Young Theatre Organist Competition, having secured the UK title two years earlier. That same year, he received the Ian Sutherland Award from the Cinema Organ Society, recognising “outstanding talent and promise".

Since 2017 Aaron has been a house organist at Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum, Glasgow, performing in the daily recital series. Renowned for his silent film work, he has toured widely since 2021 with improvised scores to The Phantom of the Opera (1925), Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror (1922) and The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1923). His debut professional recording, The Most Wurlitzer Time of the Year (2024), was made on the Wurlitzer theatre pipe organ at the New Victoria Centre, Howden-le-Wear in association with the North East Theatre Organ Trust.

Aaron has appeared on television, radio and podcasts, including BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, local BBC Radio, and The Organist Encores. He is Arts Development Officer (Music) at North Lanarkshire Council and a committed advocate for the transformative power of the expressive arts.

The Klais organ at St Lawrence Jewry, installed in 2001 by the renowned German firm Johannes Klais Orgelbau, is one of the City of London’s most distinguished modern instruments. Designed in close consultation with leading organists, it combines exceptional craftsmanship with a versatile tonal design suited to a wide range of repertoire.

Now in its 25th anniversary year, the organ continues to play a central role in the church’s musical life, supporting services, recitals, and special events. Its bold voicing and makes it equally effective for both liturgical accompaniment and concert performance.

Proceeds from anniversary events and recitals will go directly toward the ongoing maintenance and preservation of this significant instrument, ensuring that it remains in excellent condition for future generations to enjoy.

Description supplied by the event organiser.