Golden Age of Silent Film with Richard Hughes

Thursday, May 7 from 5:30-7:00pm

Golden Age of Silent Film

with live “mood music” by Richard Hughes

Date: May 7, 2026 from 5:30-7:00pm.

Go back to another time at the Athol Public Library at 568 Main Street, Athol, on Thursday, May 7 from 5:30 – 7:00p.m., when we will experience Richard Hughes for The Golden Age of Silent Film!

The height of the silent era (from the early 1910s to the late 1920s) was a particularly fruitful period with the rise of major stars like Chaplin and Keaton, and the development of film as a global industry. Not truly “silent”, a pianist, theater organist or even, an orchestra would play music to accompany the films.

During this hour and a half long event we will watch movies (including Buster Keaton’s Sherlock Jr.), clips of newsreels, and cartoons to feel what life was like at the nickelodeon back in the day. It is an interactive experience. You will even have a chance to be a part of the show using sound effects. Richard Hughes will provide live accompaniment on keyboard.

A piano player since age 7, Hughes found inspiration in the silent movies that were shown on public television. A book called Motion Picture Moods for Silent Movie Accompaniment from the Worcester Public Library became a favorite. He devoured it but had to pay fines because it was always overdue.

Hughes creatively devised a way to transport the projector, screen, piano keyboard, and films to a venue. He designed and built a cart for hauling the equipment around…including the sound effects. He currently travels throughout New England presenting his programs at libraries, schools, senior centers, and retirement homes.

This library program is generously sponsored by the Friends of the Athol Public Library.
Free and open to the public. Registration required!
You can register online with our library calendar: Golden Age of Silent Film!

You will receive an email confirmation, and an email reminder of the event 24 hours before the program. Questions? Please call the library at 978-249-9515.

Posted: to Athol Library News on Wed, Apr 22, 2026
Updated: Thu, May 7, 2026