Charlie, the Tramp, gets caught up in the merciless workings of modern industry: he is fed, hounded, locked up, and spat out again. Amid machines, chance encounters, and the abysses of society, he loses himself—and ultimately finds love. Together with his companion, he sets off toward the horizon, leaving “Modern Times” behind.
Image gallery
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Mechanization, automation, and rationalization—Chaplin’s 1936 film explores these themes in a way that is at once tragic and comical, critical and poetic. Its visual language remains astonishingly relevant to this day. The music is equally multifaceted: Chaplin composed the film score himself, showcasing his full artistic versatility. This deeply serious all-around artist was also highly regarded by composers such as Dmitri Shostakovich.
The music tells the story with its own unique touches—from the famous café dance number to a special moment: the Tramp’s voice is heard for the first time as he sings the song “Titina.”
Cast:
- Frank Strobel, conductor
- Berlin Radio Symphony Orchestra
Program
Charles Chaplin
“Modern Times” – original film with live music
(orchestrated by Edward Powell and David Raksin, reconstructed by Timothy Brock (2004)
Note:
- Pre-concert talk: 7:10 p.m., Ludwig van Beethoven Hall, Steffen Georgi
Additional information
Dates
March 2027
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