Since the 1970’s Mike Simkin has been collecting magic lanterns and optical toys at his house in south Birmingham. This short film provides a glimpse into his incredible collection of pre-cinema artefacts.
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Mike and Tre are performing Albert Smith’s lantern show The Ascent of Mont Blanc at the Library of Birmingham on Saturday 26 October 2013. This is their contribution to Box of Light, a programme of performances, screenings and workshops celebrating the magic lantern’s enduring influence. The programme runs from 25-27 October, and is part of the Discovery Season which illuminates the new library up until the end of the year.