The Santa Barbara Symphony invites audiences to rediscover comedy’s golden age as Charlie Chaplin’s iconic film, The Gold Rush is projected on the big screen at the Granada Theatre on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at 7:30 PM, and Sunday, February 16, 2025, at 3:00 PM. This classic film is celebrating its 100th Anniversary with The Symphony bringing the on-screen action to life through a perfectly synchronized live performance of the iconic score, under the baton of guest conductor Lucas Richman.
Chaplin’s silent film The Gold Rush (1925) is a heartwarming and comedic tale set during the Klondike Gold Rush of the late 19th century. The film follows the adventures of Chaplin’s iconic character, The Little Tramp, as he ventures to Alaska in search of fortune, only to encounter a series of challenges and misadventures.
When Chaplin re-released the film in 1942, he created a fully synchronized score to accompany it. The Symphony’s live performance will masterfully blend strings, woodwinds, and brass to bring to life Chaplin’s genius as a storyteller — using orchestration as a narrative device to capture the humor, romance, and resilience of the “Little Tramp”.
“Watching one of comedy’s greatest silent films with a live orchestra performing the music is really fun,” said Kathryn R Martin, President & CEO of The Symphony. “It’s a perfect Valentine’s weekend experience for families and film lovers alike.”
GOLD RUSH PHOTO FUN
Patrons are encouraged to dress in black & white in honor of Chaplin’s style and era. The Symphony will be providing Chaplin-related props for fun photo opportunities to “dress the part” in front of its step and repeat located in the Granada lobby. Patrons are also encouraged to post their pictures using the hashtag #ChaplinAtTheSymphony and #NotYourGrandfathersSymphony
PRE-CONCERT CONVERSATIONS
Audiences will have the opportunity to enhance their experience as UCSB Department of Film & Media Studies Professor Ross Melnick leads the conversation on Chaplin’s artistic legacy, the enduring appeal of The Gold Rush, and the art of synchronizing live music with film on stage in the Granada Theatre:
Saturday, February 15, 2025 | 6:30 – 7:00 PM
Sunday, February 16, 2025 | 2:00 – 2:30 PM
TICKETS
Tickets for the Chaplin’s Masterpiece @ 100 – The Gold Rush can be purchased at the Granada Box Office online, by phone at 805-899-2222, or in person at 1214 State Street. For more information, visit TheSymphony.org or call (805) 898-9386.
SPONSORS
Principal Concert Sponsor
Montecito Bank & Trust
Guest Conductor Sponsor
Rachel Kaganoff
Selection Sponsor
Janet A. Garufis
About Lucas Richman
Richman is a Grammy Award-winning conductor and composer and is celebrated for his expertise in both film and concert music. His notable credits include conducting for Hollywood blockbusters such as As Good As It Gets and The Village. Richman’s dynamic leadership and exceptional talent make him the perfect choice to bring Chaplin’s masterful score to life. For more about Richman, visit https://thesymphony.org/concerts-events/orchestra-concerts/chaplins-masterpiece-100-the-gold-rush/
About The Santa Barbara Symphony
Now in its 72nd year, The Santa Barbara Symphony delivers artistic excellence, outstanding music education stewardship and programming, and community collaboration — all through symphonic music. Under the artistic leadership of Maestro Nir Kabaretti as Music & Artistic Director since 2006, The Symphony is one of the region’s premier cultural institutions. Through his charismatic leadership, this globally admired conductor and Santa Barbara resident invigorates audiences and musicians alike through his passion, creativity, and vast experience. As the only music education program tied to a professional symphony orchestra in the region, The Symphony serves more than 2,000 students annually throughout Santa Barbara County. While The Symphony continues to evolve, bringing joy, engagement, and connection remain steadfast pillars of its mission and were evident in the organization’s ability to thrive during the pandemic including the historic announcement that Board Chair Janet Garufis and President & CEO Kathryn R Martin join Nir Kabaretti in making a five-year commitment to serve in their roles. For more information, visit TheSymphony.org.
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