Elliott and Schlemowitz’s "Phantasmagoria," a magic lantern show

In the late 18th century, scientist, balloonist, and showman Étienne-Gaspard Robertson created a sensation in Paris with the Fantasmagorie, a magic lantern show blending science and the occult. His rear-projection images and wheeled fantascope projector made diminutive ghosts and goblins appear to grow into gigantic forms, as if stalking toward the astonished audience.

Magic lantern performers Dawn Elliott and Joel Schlemowitz have built a working fantascope with tracks and a rear-projection screen, along with scores of hand-painted slides, to recreate the experience of the Fantasmagorie. Its eerie repertoire includes a visit to a haunted graveyard, an appearance by the Bleeding Nun from the gothic novel The Monk, the head of Medusa (“as horrifying as ever”), and a midnight visit to a Witches’ Sabbath.

Due to the graphic nature of the historical storytelling and imagery, this program is not recommended for children under 13. Children under 18 must be supervised by an adult.

Elliott and Schlemowitz’s Phantasmagoria has received the Dick Balzer Performance Award from the Magic Lantern Society UK. They collaborate to combine history, art, and performance through magic lantern shows. Learn more at https://www.magiclanternexhibition.com.

The presentation will take place under the night sky on the lawn behind the Jacob (“Jean”) Hasbrouck House, 69 Huguenot Street. Picnic tables and bistro sets will be available but are limited; registrants are encouraged to bring camping chairs and blankets.

The DuBois Fort Visitor Center and Museum Shop will be open from 5–9 pm on the evening of the event. A restroom is on the building’s second floor. Accessible restrooms are available in Deyo Hall at 6 Broadhead Avenue.

Bottled water, coffee, and hot apple cider will be available for purchase at the Museum Shop. Other food and beverages are welcome. Alcohol and smoking are strictly prohibited. Please use the receptacles to dispose of trash.

In the event of inclement weather, the presentation will be postponed to Sunday, October 25.

Admission:
- $16 general admission
- $12 discounted admission for HHS members, seniors, students, active military personnel and their families, veterans, and youth ages 13–17
- $8 children’s admission for ages 7–12
- Free for children 6 and under