Family Friendly Magic Lantern Show

Details:

Join performers Dawn Elliott and Joel Schlemowitz and step back into the world of Jane Austen’s England with a magic lantern show—one of the most popular and spellbinding forms of entertainment in the early 19th century. Long before movies, audiences gathered to marvel at glowing images projected from hand-painted glass slides, brought to life with narration, music, and theatrical flair. These shows delighted children and adults alike, sparking laughter, curiosity, and a sense of shared wonder.

Designed with families in mind, this lively presentation blends colorful visuals, lighthearted storytelling, and historical insight to create an engaging experience for all ages. Whether you’re new to Regency-era history or simply looking for a fun, screen-free outing, this family-friendly magic lantern show offers a warm, imaginative way to experience the kind of amusement Jane Austen and her contemporaries would have enjoyed.

This is part of our larger Winter Sunday Salons: a series of public programs that invite curiosity and connection through history, literature, music, and culture. Offering a range of performances, lectures, and interactive events, this season’s salons commemorate the 250th birthday of Jane Austen and her enduring legacy.