Join us for a magical experience at Calthorpes’ House. Artists, musicians, actors, singers and performers will create a special entertainment using all the latest technology — from 150 years ago! Play hide-and-seek with musicians and artists in the intimate surroundings of the gardens before gathering for a special show of beautiful hand painted glass slides projected through authentic magic lanterns.

Inspired by the pianola songs, radio broadcasts, picture shows and cracker nights of last century, pictures will dissolve one into another as stories are told and songs are sung. There will be high melodrama and low farce, whirling colours and spooky surprises, startling graphics and dreamy visions as some of Canberra’s most internationally accomplished performers and artists bring to life mahogany and brass apparatuses that are usually only seen in museums. 

Prior to the commencement of the show Artist Martyn Jolly will discuss the team’s approach to re-enactment and creative reuse incorporating the work of contemporary artist such as the painter Waratah Lahy, and contemporary musicians such as the composer Alexander Hunter.

An Enlighten 2020 event.