Buster Keaton's “Steamboat Bill, Jr.” | Tupper Lake | July 7, 2026
- Adirondack State Theater 100 Park Street Tupper Lake, New York, 12986 United States (map)
Buster Keaton's Steamboat Bill, Jr. Comes to Tupper Lake with Live Music by Ben Model
Adirondack State Theater on Park Street in Tupper Lake, NY.
Silent film, live music, and one of cinema's most legendary stunts come together on Tuesday, July 7, when silent film accompanist Ben Model presents Buster Keaton's Steamboat Bill, Jr.(1928) at the Adirondack State Theater in Tupper Lake. Part film screening, part live performance, and part cinematic history lesson, the event offers Adirondack audiences a chance to experience one of the greatest silent comedies ever made as it was originally intended to be seen.
Held at the historic Adirondack State Theater in downtown Tupper Lake, the screening combines Keaton's fearless physical comedy with live accompaniment from one of America's foremost silent film historians and musicians.
For visitors exploring the Tri-Lakes region, it's an unexpectedly memorable addition to a summer itinerary in the Adirondacks.
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Why Steamboat Bill, Jr. still thrills audiences.
Released in 1928, Steamboat Bill, Jr. is widely considered one of Buster Keaton's greatest films.
The story follows the awkward son of a steamboat captain who attempts to win over both his father and his sweetheart while navigating rivalries, misunderstandings, and increasingly chaotic circumstances.
Buster Keaton. Photo by Moviestore:REX:Shutterstock
Of course, the film is perhaps best remembered for one extraordinary sequence.
Near the film's climax, the facade of an entire house collapses around Keaton, leaving him unharmed as he passes perfectly through an open upstairs window. Performed without modern visual effects or digital trickery, the stunt remains one of the most astonishing moments in movie history.
Nearly a century later, audiences still gasp.
ADK Taste pick.
Stay for the famous falling-house scene.
Even viewers who have never watched a silent film have likely seen images of Keaton standing motionless as a building crashes around him. Seeing the moment unfold on a large theater screen—with an audience reacting together—is worth the price of admission alone.
A silent film experience for the Adirondacks.
Watching Steamboat Bill, Jr. with Ben Model transforms the evening from a movie screening into a live event.
Model performs throughout the film, creating music that responds to the action on screen in real time. His accompaniment highlights the comedy, tension, and emotion of each scene while recreating the experience audiences would have enjoyed during the silent film era.
For many first-time attendees, the biggest surprise is how modern silent films feel. The pacing, humor, and visual storytelling remain remarkably effective.
Video: Meet silent film accompanist Ben Model.
Before attending the screening, learn more about Ben Model's work preserving silent film and introducing new audiences to this uniquely American art form.
Silent film accompanist Ben Model discusses his career, the history of silent cinema, and the art of performing live music alongside classic films.
Ben Model brings his acclaimed live silent film presentation to Tupper Lake's Adirondack State Theater on July 7.
The Adirondack State Theatre and classic film in the Adirondacks.
The Adirondack State Theatre has become one of the North Country's most important venues for independent films, special screenings, concerts, and cultural events.
Located in the heart of Tupper Lake, the theater serves as a gathering place for residents and visitors alike. Events like this connect modern audiences with a shared entertainment experience that feels increasingly rare in the age of streaming.
The combination of a historic theater, a classic film, and live musical accompaniment creates an atmosphere perfectly suited to an Adirondack summer evening.
Video: Watch one of cinema's most famous stunts.
Buster Keaton's house-facade stunt from Steamboat Bill, Jr. remains one of the most celebrated practical effects ever filmed.
The famous falling-house sequence from Steamboat Bill, Jr. (1928), often cited as one of the greatest stunts in movie history.
The stunt remains a highlight of Keaton's legacy and one of the defining moments of silent film comedy.
ADK Taste insight.
Silent films were never truly silent.
Before the arrival of synchronized soundtracks, theaters employed pianists, organists, and orchestras to accompany films live. Ben Model continues that tradition, using a portable digital organ and specialized technology to recreate the sounds of the grand theater organs that once filled movie palaces across America.
Who should attend.
Film lovers will appreciate the historical significance.
Families will enjoy Keaton's timeless physical comedy. History buffs will enjoy the glimpse into early moviegoing culture. And travelers seeking more than hiking trails and waterfront views will discover one of the Adirondacks' most distinctive cultural experiences.
No silent film expertise required.
ADK Taste recommendation.
Arrive early and explore downtown Tupper Lake before the screening. Grab dinner nearby, stroll through the village, and settle into the Adirondack State Theater before the program begins. Ben Model's introduction adds valuable context and makes the film even more enjoyable.
Steamboat Bill, Jr. screens at the Adirondack State Theater in Tupper Lake with live musical accompaniment by Bill Model.
Event details.
Event: Ben Model presents Steamboat Bill, Jr.
Venue: Adirondack State Theater
Location: Tupper Lake, New York
Date: Tuesday, July 7, 2026
Film: Steamboat Bill, Jr. (1928)
Performer: Ben Model
Visit the Adirondack State Theater website or Facebook page for showtime, ticket information, and updates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What movie is Ben Model presenting in Tupper Lake?
Ben Model will accompany Buster Keaton's classic silent comedy Steamboat Bill, Jr. (1928).
What is Steamboat Bill, Jr. known for?
The film features Keaton's famous falling-house stunt, considered one of the greatest practical effects ever performed.
Where is the Adirondack State Theater?
The theater is located in downtown Tupper Lake, New York, in the Adirondack Park.
Who is Ben Model?
Ben Model is one of America's leading silent film accompanists, historians, and presenters, performing live with silent films across the United States and internationally.
Is this event suitable for people who have never seen a silent film?
Absolutely. Many first-time viewers are surprised by how funny, engaging, and accessible silent films remain.
Where can I find ticket information?
Visit the Adirondack State Theater's website or Facebook page for the latest details.
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