Return of the Icon: Big Bertha's Grand Comeback at Alabama Theatre!

After nearly eight months of meticulous repairs, the legendary "Big Bertha," the Mighty Wurlitzer organ, has triumphantly returned to its cherished home at the Alabama Theatre in downtown Birmingham. This moment marks not just a restoration, but a celebration of history, music, and community spirit!

A Journey Through Time

Since its debut in 1927, Big Bertha has been an integral part of the Alabama Theatre experience. For the first time since 1998, this majestic instrument was temporarily removed for essential mechanical repairs. Organist Gary W. Jones expressed his excitement, stating, “I’ll be spending the rest of the day playing the hell out of it to ensure it’s ready for Friday night’s public debut before the beloved Halloween classic, Hocus Pocus.”

What Makes Big Bertha So Special?

• Historical Significance: One of only three surviving Wurlitzer organs from the original 17 commissioned by Paramount Pictures, Big Bertha holds a unique place in cinematic history.
• Iconic Status: Over the years, Bertha has become synonymous with the Alabama Theatre, as iconic as its famous marquee.
• Musical Accompaniment: Designed to provide enchanting musical accompaniment for silent films, Bertha has a rich legacy of captivating audiences.

The Restoration Process

The restoration of Big Bertha was executed by the Atlanta-based A.E. Schlueter Pipe Organ Company. Their expertise was crucial during the loading and installation process, ensuring that this monumental organ was handled with the utmost care. Jones noted, “When they loaded Bertha, I was very nervous, but I quickly realized the guys from Schlueter knew exactly what they were doing. They’ve done a tremendous job taking care of Bertha.”

Upcoming Events Featuring Big Bertha

Fans of classic cinema and live music can look forward to two exciting events this weekend:

1. Friday Night: A sing-along session before Hocus Pocus
2. Sunday Afternoon: A special performance accompanying Phantom of the Opera, showcasing Bertha’s magnificent sound in a way few other events can.

Tickets are available now on the Alabama Theatre’s official website, so don’t miss your chance to experience this historic event!

Join the Conversation!

We want to hear from you! Share your thoughts and opinions on Big Bertha’s return and the events surrounding it. Here are some questions to get you started:

• How do you feel about the revival of classic cinema experiences like those at the Alabama Theatre?
• Do you believe traditional organs like Big Bertha have a place in modern entertainment?
• What are your thoughts on the significance of preserving historical instruments?
• Are silent films still relevant in today’s cinematic landscape?

Let your voice be heard in the comments below!