A FUSION of work by Barnet’s early film makers and soundtracks composed by the borough’s youngsters are to be screened at one of the oldest cinemas in the country.

As part of The Phoenix Cinema’s centenary celebrations it has partnered with Rithmik music studio, run by Barnet Council’s Youth and Connexions Service, to present a free screening on Sunday, November 28 at 2pm.

The cinema, in High Road, East Finchley, will showcase a selection of films made by Barnet-based pioneering filmmakers Robert Paul and Birt Acres alongside pre-recorded soundtracks from Rithmik’s young members and live music from world-renowned silent film accompanist, Stephen Horne.

Mr Paul and Mr Acres developed early filmmaking and screening technology and Mr Acres held the first ever British public film screening for members of the Lyonsdown Photographic Club in Barnet, in January 1896.

The youngsters were shown the men’s work, given a workshop about composing silent film by Mr Horne and then worked at the music studio to compose soundtracks to a collection of the films.

Eleanor Sier, heritage officer at The Phoenix, said: “The young people really took on board Stephen’s advice about using the music to enhance the storyline and emotions of these silent films.

“The soundtracks they have produced are exciting and fun.

“It's extraordinary when you realise that the young people have never watched films like this before and certainly haven’t composed a film soundtrack before.”

Councillor Andrew Harper, deputy leader and cabinet member for education, children and families, said: “This project, which provides a mix of contemporary music and classic film imagery, is another exciting example of the wealth of creative talent we have in our borough.”

The screening is funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, Film London and the UK Film Council’s Digital Film Archive Fund, supported by the National Lottery and is open to members of the public.