Saltaire Festival To Shine Spotlight On The Mighty Wurlitzer

There can't be many instruments that come with their own lift, but the Mighty Wurlitzer at Victoria Hall, Saltaire, is not many instruments. On Thursday 17th September the theatre pipe organ will take centre stage for a free open day, part of this year's Saltaire Festival.

Visitors are invited to drop in any time between 11am and 4pm to see the Wurlitzer up close, with mini concerts running throughout the day from a range of players. Among them will be British organist Jack Morton, who this year became the first British winner of the American Theatre Organist of the Year competition.

The day will also include tours of the organ chamber, talks, and information displays, giving newcomers a chance to see how the instrument works behind the scenes. Light refreshments will be available for a donation.

Organisers are keen to point out that the event is aimed as much at the curious as the converted. Anyone who has never quite understood the appeal of the cinema organ — and there are plenty who haven't — is being actively encouraged to come along and bring a friend.

The venue is level entry from Lockwood Street via a lift, and Victoria Hall is a three-minute walk from Saltaire railway station.

The event is presented by the Cinema Organ Society (registered charity no. 1189263) as part of the Saltaire Festival. Entry is completely free.