Silent Movie Mondays Brings a Holiday Double Feature to the Balboa Theatre

The Balboa Theatre is dusting off two classic silent films for a special holiday edition of Silent Movie Mondays. We can catch Old Scrooge (1926) and Charlie Chaplin’s A Dog’s Life (1918), both accompanied by organist Ken Double. It’s one of those evenings that leans into old-school charm while supporting a good cause.

Two films, two vibes

Old Scrooge, starring Seymour Hicks, is a British adaptation of A Christmas Carol that originally premiered in the UK in 1913 before crossing the pond with its new title in 1926. The second feature, A Dog’s Life, showcases Chaplin as his iconic “tramp” character alongside Edna Purviance and Scraps, the canine co-star who steals plenty of scenes.

Both films get the live organ treatment from Ken Double, which is half the reason to show up for silent film screenings in the first place.

Toys for a good cause

San Diego Theatres is partnering with HomeStart, Inc. for a toy drive benefiting vulnerable children and families in San Diego. Bringing a new, unwrapped toy gets us more than just good karma – the first 50 donors receive a free bag of popcorn. It’s a small gesture that makes the evening feel a little more connected to the community.

Before and after the films

Doors open at 6 PM, giving us time to grab a photo with Santa and share our wish lists. After the screening, there’s a post-show conversation with Ken Double and Kristian Perez-Franco, Exhibitions Senior Manager at Media Arts Center. It’s a chance to hear more about the films, the music, and the preservation work that keeps these classics accessible.

See you there!

Holiday classics, live organ music, and a toy drive all rolled into one evening at the Balboa.

📆 Monday, December 15, 7 PM (Doors open at 6 PM)
📍 868 Fourth Ave, San Diego
🎟️ Get your tickets here

See you there, San Diego!