Phantasmagoria - Magic Lantern Show

Phantasmagoria

A 150-year-old magic lantern — one of the earliest forms of projected entertainment — will illuminate the brand-new Headland Theatre, transforming it into an ageless, immersive realm of wonder. Using original hand-painted glass slides, this rare device will conjure a phantasmagoria of swirling images, dissolving scenes and shifting patterns that dance through the darkness. It’s a chance to witness the kind of visual marvel that captivated audiences long before cinema was born.

Expect to be delighted, enchanted and perhaps just a little spooked as these luminous pictures appear and vanish, creating a dreamlike atmosphere for all ages.

A range of special guests will add their own magic to the evening including:

• April Phillips who will lead a gentle, imaginative guided meditation to transport the audience back in time — setting the tone for an experience that blends history, magic, music and community.

• Live musicians Dean Gray and Nick Keeling who will weave a rich soundscape around the visuals — from delicate acoustic textures to rousing sing-along moments — enhancing every transformation on screen and grounding the show in warm, organic energy.

• Guiding the journey is MC and narrator Andrew Gray, whose storytelling threads the images together with humour, contemporary commentary and playful theatricality. His narration brings personality and narrative shape to what was once Victorian-era spectacle.

With surprises, guest appearances and a spirit of lively showmanship, this unique event offers a rare glimpse into the origins of visual storytelling while creating something utterly fresh for modern family audiences.

INFO

• 2 shows at 2.00pm and 6.30pm on Thursday 16 April 2026

• Duration: 45 min (no interval)

• Tickets: Adult - $20, Concession - $15, Under 18s - $12 (plus booking fee - non-refundable)

• Bistro opening hours - Lunch: 11:30am to 2:00pm, Dinner: 5:30pm to 8:00pm (bookings recommended)