Best Bets: Alloy Orchestra: ‘Variete’

The late Roger Ebert called Alloy Orchestra 'the best in the world at accompanying silent films.” A combination of found percussion and state-of-the-art electronics gives the ensemble the ability to create any sound imaginable. This latest project brings to life the 1925 German tale of love, deception, revenge and redemption. Set in the circus, acting legend Emile Jannings - the first recipient of the Oscar for best actor - is the 'catcher” for a great trapeze act. Jannings falls in love with a beguiling dancer played by Lya De Putti. Spoiler alert: Not his best catch.

Alloy Orchestra: ‘Variete'

7 p.m. Saturday (10/27), Englert Theatre, 221 E. Washington St. Iowa City; $15 to $25, Englert Box Office, (319) 688-2653 or Englert.org/event/alloy-orchestra-presents-variete/