Rick Wakeman to Host SIlent Comedy Gala 2026

RICK WAKEMAN RETURNS TO SLAPSTICK’S SILENT COMEDY GALA 2026

Slapstick Festival is proud to announce the return of its flagship event — the Silent Comedy Gala 2026, an annual celebration of cinema’s golden age featuring world-class live music, iconic classic films, and unforgettable onscreen performances.
Now in its 22nd edition, the Gala continues to be the centrepiece of Bristol’s much-loved Slapstick Festival at Bristol’s prestigious Beacon Hall.

This year’s headline feature is Charlie Chaplin’s The Kid (1921) — Chaplin’s first full-length film and one of the true masterpieces of cinema. Blending physical comedy with tender storytelling, The Kid remains as powerful, relevant and moving today as it was over a century ago.

Accompanying the film is Chaplin’s composed orchestral score, performed by Bristol Ensemble in a specially arranged score for 16 players, conducted by internationally acclaimed silent film maestro Guenter A. Buchwald.

World Premiere Musical Collaboration

Returning after a sensational 2025 appearance, Rick Wakeman — legendary keyboardist and composer — will take the stage this time unveiling a brand new, specially commissioned score, composed exclusively for the Gala. Wakeman will join Buchwald in an intimate duo performance, bringing Buster Keaton’s short classic The Boat (1921) to life with a one-night-only cinematic experience.

Also screening on the night is the newly restored Laurel & Hardy short Leave ’Em Laughing (1928) accompanied by a live musical trio performance, rounding out an extraordinary triple-bill live cinema event.

Following the highest Gala ticket sales in 15 years in 2025, this year’s event promises to be even bigger, with a special guest host to be announced and more surprises in store. It’s going to be our biggest yet!

Chaplin’s standout masterpiece The Kid and the return of Rick Wakeman makes this the perfect way to celebrate our 22st edition,” says Festival Director Chris Daniels.

“It’s going to be an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime night for silent film aficionados”