Mighty Wurlitzer To Roar Back To Life At Saltaire Open Day

Saltaire's Victoria Hall throws open its doors on Thursday 6th August for a day dedicated to one of the great survivors of the silent-cinema age: the Mighty Wurlitzer.

Between 11am and 4pm, visitors can get up close to the theatre pipe organ and hear it played not once but repeatedly, as a rotating cast of organists takes the console throughout the day. Among them is Jack Morton, the British player who this year claimed the title of American Theatre Organist of the Year — a rare instance of the trophy crossing the Atlantic in the right direction.

Beyond the mini concerts, the day includes tours of the organ chamber, talks, and information displays for those keen to understand what actually happens behind — and above — the console. Light refreshments will be available for a donation, and entry itself costs nothing at all, which in an era of ever-creeping ticket prices feels almost as remarkable as the instrument itself.

It's a drop-in event, so there's no need to commit to a set time: come for ten minutes or stay for the full five hours. The venue is level-access from Lockwood Street via a lift, and Saltaire railway station is just a three-minute walk away — so there's little excuse not to bring a friend along and introduce them to the curious, thrilling world of the cinema organ.

Victoria Hall, Saltaire, BD18 3JS. Thursday 6th August, 11am–4pm. Free entry.