If anyone thought silent films had been lost to the times, they don't know what's happening in the Harris Fine Arts Center on Saturday night.

KBYU Classical 89 is hosting a silent film night in the de Jong Concert Hall on Saturday at 7:30 p.m.

"The Mark of Zorro," a 1920s silent movie classic, is a family-friendly event.

"Every age group comes to these events," said Christine Nokleby of Classical 89. "It's good, clean ... the way entertainment should be."

The film stars actor Douglas Fairbanks, Sr. who plays the role of Zorro in the film.

"He was a heartthrob in the silent film days," Nokleby said.

Continuing with silent film tradition, the evening will begin with pre-movie entertainment. Saturday night will start with Spanish dancing and a sing-along with slides and an organ accompanying.

"Once you come you're hooked," Nokleby said.

Mike Ohman, a music theory professor in the School of Music, will accompany the silent film on the organ.

"He's a master at it, and he doesn't use music," Nokelby said. "He just looks at the screen and plays the mood."

Ohman has 45 years of experience of accompanying silent films, 25 of which he has spent at BYU. Ohman has a familiarity with the films and how to provide the best atmosphere for the audience.

"You have to watch the film for musical triggers," Ohman said. "You can't be held down and caught up reading music."

Silent film accompanists become familiar with musical themes that are meant to represent certain emotions. Some silent films had specific themes for characters.

"Silent film was never silent," Ohman said.

Two-for-one admission is available with a KBYU Membercard, but only if purchased through the box office. For more information, go to classical89.org/specials.

Copyright Brigham Young University 26 Feb 2009