STE. GENEVIEVE – On Saturday, October 25, the Friends of Ste. Genevieve County Library will transform the historic Orris Theatre into a silent movie house for a once-in-a-century experience. Audiences will enjoy a screening of the 1922 horror masterpiece Nosferatu accompanied by a live performance from the seven-piece Rats & People Orchestra of St. Louis, MO.
Originally opened in 1932, the Orris served as the town’s movie theater for four decades before falling into disrepair. In the 1980s, it was revitalized as a premier live event venue. While movies have long been absent from its stage, this program will take attendees back to the earliest days of cinema—before the Orris was even built.
“After the failure of Prop L, our Friends group has really been tasked with stepping up and fundraising for the Library,” said Library Director Shawn Long. “We don’t know what the future holds, and if we have to cut anything, having our Friends’ support will be critical to ensuring the library can continue providing the services our community depends on.”
Because the original score to Nosferatu has been lost, the Rats & People Orchestra will perform their own original composition. “Any live accompaniment is shaped by the musicians’ interpretation, which makes this an incredibly unique program to experience,” Long explained.
The evening will also feature a Washington University professor, who will open the program with a brief 15-minute presentation about the film and its influence. “We not only want this program to raise funds,” Long added, “but also to highlight that the library is more than just books. It’s about community, culture, and education.”
The Friends of the Library are proud to present this program with the support of generous sponsors, including Lakenan Insurance, MLC, Ste. Genevieve County Memorial Hospital, The Orris, The Silver Sycamore Gallery, Confetti & Company, and Susie Johnson & Carl Kinsky. These sponsors ensure that 100% of ticket sales will directly benefit the Ste. Genevieve County Library’s mission and vision.
Event Details:
- What:Nosferatu (1922) with Live Orchestra Performance
- When:Saturday, October 25, 2025
- Where:The Orris Theatre, 265 Merchant St., Ste. Genevieve, MO
- Tickets:Available now at https://givebutter.com/FOTLNosferatu