The Beginnings of Cinema and Photography

Archival films, live piano and film photography: a day to discover cinema and photography from another era.

In the days of silent film, screenings weren’t entirely silent! Musicians accompanied the films, creating a live soundtrack for the images unfolding on screen.

Roman Zavada will bring this fascinating tradition back to life, following in the footsteps of the musicians who once provided live accompaniment to silent films. For the occasion, the pianist will present a performance created especially for the Maison, featuring films from the Centre d’archives de Laval. A unique encounter between local archival footage and live music.

These images will also take us back to the early days of cinema and a little-known chapter of Laval’s history. Before the performance, our historian will introduce you to Léo-Ernest Ouimet, a native of Saint-Martin (Laval) and a key figure in the history of cinema in Quebec. A pioneer of film exhibition, he notably founded the Ouimetoscope, one of Montreal’s first permanent movie theatres.

After watching the images, why not create some of your own? Step behind the lens during a film photography workshop. Using handmade cameras, capture your own images, develop two black-and-white photographs yourself and watch them appear before your eyes!

Choose the activities that interest you and take the opportunity to explore the Maison and its exhibitions at your own pace. Tea, herbal tea and coffee will also be available.

All activities are free. As space is limited, separate reservations are required for the photography workshop and Roman Zavada’s performance.

Schedule

11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Self-guided visit of the Maison
Complimentary tea, herbal tea and coffee

11 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Film photography workshop

1 p.m. to 2 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Short presentation on the history of cinema followed by Roman Zavada’s live musical performance accompanying archival films

Free — reservations recommended, limited spaces available.