Events

Programme outline

Convention events start around lunchtime on Friday 29 April and conclude late in the afternoon of Sunday 1 May. The programme is still being finalised, but highlights will include:

A wide range of entertaining and informative shows and presentations, by new faces as well as established performers, giving a lively cross-section of what’s happening in today’s lantern world as well as the latest historical research.

Optional Saturday evening dinner and lantern cabaret – great food, unusual entertainment and splendid surroundings in the spectacular Library of Birmingham. Numbers are limited, and there is an extra charge for this event to cover the venue and catering costs.

Fascinating exhibitions and sideshows, covering a weird and wonderful range of all things optical and artistic, from the Phantasmagoria to the Internet.

A lively collectors’ market, with bargains to be had and items for everyone. If you have things to sell or trade, tables are available at a small extra charge.

Our traditional Grand Auction of lanterns, slides and everything related. A great opportunity to reduce (or, perhaps, add to...) the lantern clutter in your home!

An exclusive limited-edition book – the latest addition to the Society’s long list of quality publications. All Convention attenders will receive a voucher worth 50% of the price of the book (two people can combine their vouchers for a free copy). A limited number of copies will be offered for sale to MLS members unable to attend, but after the Convention the book will only be available while any remaining stocks last.