La Fantasmagorie

The French name for what is known as phantasmagoria, fantasmagorie or fantasmagoria in English.

A form of theatrical presentation, using a modified version of the magic lantern, smoke, semi-transparent screens, etc to create frightening illusionary effects. The form was developed in France in the late 18th century, it gained popularity through most of Europe (especially England) and the colonies throughout the 19th century.

Performance history in South Africa

1809: A presentation of a "Cantasmagorie" (most probably a misprint for "La Fantasmagorie") was done in Cape Town on 29 August, 1809, along with and a ballet by the pupils of J. Riaux.

Sources

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phantasmagoria

http://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fantasmagorie_(spectacle)

Bosman, 1928: pp.127-128;

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