The Invincible Czars cram violin, organ, flute, bass clarinet, drums, synthesizers, music box and live sound effects into a score played by just five musicians, with nods to Bartók's Romanian Folk Dances for Count Orlok's homeland. Max Schreck's vampire remains one of cinema's most unsettling images. If you want a genuinely different spooky-season night out, catch it on Staten Island.
What to expect
The band performs in the theater while the silent film plays, so the music is live and reacts to the images. Alamo seats you at dine-in tables with food and drink ordered during the show, and latecomers are not admitted once the film begins.
Good to know
- The theater is at 2636 Hylan Blvd in New Dorp; the Staten Island Railway's New Dorp station is within walking distance.
- Alamo does not let guests enter once a film has started, so arrive early.
- Food and drinks are served at your seat from the menu.
- Silent films are intertitled, so there is no spoken dialogue.
- Check Alamo's age policy before bringing younger kids.
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Common questions
Who are the Invincible Czars?
An Austin-based band that has written and performed live silent-film scores since 2006, including Nosferatu and The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari.
Is the score live?
Yes. Alamo says the five-piece band performs the soundtrack live in the theater.
