Podtalk: Dennis Scott, Organist at Chicago’s Music Box Theatre

Printer-friendly versionPrinter-friendly versionE-mail page to friendE-mail page to friendPDF versionPDF version
Average: 5 (1 vote)

CHICAGO – The lines go around the block next to Chicago’s northside Music Box Theatre this time of year, as their annual holiday double feature is presented – “White Christmas” (1954) and “It’s a Wonderful Life” (1946). And leading the pre-show sing-along … along with Santa … is the resident organist Dennis Scott.

The double feature has been around since the Music Box began its second life in 1983, after opening as a neighborhood movie palace in 1929. The theater had served the area since its opening, but it had a small decline in the 1970s and ’80s, before being bought and restored. Beginning in ’83, the owners began the Chicago Christmas tradition of their classic double feature, and as Music Box and programming has evolved, it has become an annual destination for Chicagoans. Gratefully, it began again in 2021, after being postponed last year due to the pandemic (click link below for info).

DS
Dennis Scott and his Instrument at the Music Box Theatre
Photo credit: MusicBoxTheatre.com

Dennis Scott originally was from Oklahoma, and except for a couple years of lessons is basically self-taught on the organ, which allows his music to connect to his audience. His first gig in Chicago was at the iconic jazz club the Green Mill Cocktail Lounge, back in the grittier days of the mid 1970s. He learned to accompany silent films while working as an organist in a pizza parlor, as they projected two-reelers on the wall. He is now considered an international authority on silent film-era accompaniment, as well as his resident gig at the historic Music Box Theatre.

In a Podtalk, Dennis Scott Talks to Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com about his journey as a musician, both inside and outside the Music Box. Happy Holidays! …

In a BONUS video perspective, Dennis Scott talks about the history of the organ that currently is at the Music Box Theatre …

The ”White Christmas” and “It’s a Wonderful Life” Sing-Along Double Feature continues through December 23rd at the Music Box Theatre, 3733 North Southport Avenue, Chicago. Click HOLIDAYS for details and tickets.

HollywoodChicago.com senior staff writer Patrick McDonald

By PATRICK McDONALD
Editor, Film Writer
HollywoodChicago.com
pat@hollywoodchicago.com

© 2021 Patrick McDonald, HollywoodChicago.com

User Login

Free Giveaway Mailing

TV, DVD, BLU-RAY & THEATER REVIEWS

  • Charlie Hustle & the Matter of Pete Rose

    CHICAGO – Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com audio review for the doc series “Charlie Hustle & the Matter of Pete Rose,” about the rise and bitter fall of the major league legend, the MLB’s all-time hits leader, only to be banned from the sport because of gambling. Streaming on MAX and on HBO since July 24th.

  • Little Bear Ridge Road STEPPENWOLF

    CHICAGO – The Steppenwolf Theatre of Chicago continues to provide different viewpoints on the American stage, and their latest “Little Bear Ridge Road” is no exception. Featuring ensemble member Laurie Metcalf, it’s the resonate story of a family at the crossroads. For tickets/details, click LITTLE BEAR.

Advertisement



HollywoodChicago.com on Twitter

archive

HollywoodChicago.com Top Ten Discussions
tracker