The evening began with a soulful guitar performance by San Diego Music Hall of Fame inductee Fred Benedetti, setting a warm tone as guests settled in. Renowned organist Ken Double then introduced the film, sharing insights on the theater’s historic Wonder Morton organ before providing live accompaniment throughout, his music perfectly syncing with Douglas Fairbanks’ daring feats as the masked vigilante Zorro, defending colonial Spanish California from corruption. The audience’s laughter and applause filled the theater, fostering a vibrant sense of community that made the night truly special.
The communal energy was palpable as attendees, spanning generations, reacted to Zorro's fencing heroics and romantic escapades with Lolita Pulido, who remains unaware of his dual identity as the seemingly frivolous Don Diego Vega. Double's organ score heightened every dramatic moment, from Zorro’s signature “Z” slashes to his battles against the corrupt Governor Alvarado, immersing the crowd in a cinematic experience as it was meant to be seen over a century ago.
The Balboa Theatre, with its ornate Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, became a time capsule, blending the film’s historical setting with the venue’s own storied past. This unique pairing of a century-old film and theater, enhanced by live music, underscored why Silent Movie Mondays has become a cherished tradition for San Diego's film and entertainment scene, offering a night of nostalgia that bridges past and present.
The event's impact was evident in the enthusiastic response from attendees, including 20 readers of SanDiegoVille's Instagram who received free tickets through a giveaway. Many shared their delight, with one describing it as one of the coolest experiences ever and confirming they already purchased tickets for the next screening on June 9, featuring the 1926 romantic drama Flesh and the Devil with Greta Garbo, accompanied by organist Russ Peck.
Silent Movie Mondays continues to offer a rare chance to enjoy silent-era masterpieces with live music in a historic setting, making it a must-visit for locals and tourists alike. Tickets for upcoming events are available at sandiegotheatres.org/silent-movie-mondays, promising more unforgettable nights at this iconic venue.
Originally published on April 15, 2025.
