In response to Evan's comments about live accompaniment of films,
I'd heartily suggest Charles Musser's volume in the Scribner History
of the American Cinema.  He goes into great detail not only about
early silent film (which often was "presented" by a narrator), but
also magic lantern shows, which were always accompanied by some
form of "performance."  It's remarkable how sophisticated these
programs were.  (And if you ever get to Connecticut, there's a
group that does authentic magic lantern shows a couple of times
a year at an old playhouse in Ivoryton -- I saw my first one a
few weeks back and it was amazing!)
 
Jay Rozgonyi
Media Librarian
Fairfield University
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