As a weekly film-goer and an avid fan of The Oriental Theatre, I feel as if I know the historic theatre like the back of my hand. That was until I met William Gans…
Before a Friday or Saturday night show, there’s a unique sound coming from the main theatre. It’s the sounds of the Kimball Theatre Pipe Organ. An organ that is home to 95-year-old William Gans, better known as Bill.
Bill is a very sweet man who has a passion for music, the organ and films. He’s practically been living in theatres is whole life, learning from his Mother who used to play the organ back when there were silent films.
A lot of Milwaukee-area residents get to a show early just to hear Bill play the organ. They say, "It helps make The Oriental Theatre experience that much better."
I won’t give away too many details, so here’s the one and only William Gans to explain the art behind the organ.
