Panorama of China
Albert Smith's "China" panorama was and
The Panorama of China was a panoramic theatrical illusion devised and presented in word and mime by Abert Smith, ostensibly showing and describing a trip from Mont Blanc to China. Originally exhibited at the Egyptian Hall in Piccadilly, London, in 1859.
It was brought to South Africa in 1863 as part of the repertoire of a company led by J.F. Finlayson (also narrator and musical director) Mr Bowmer, Madame Bowmer and Miss Whitfield. The machinery arrived late, so the panorama was only presented in July of the year. Apparently a great success in Cape Town.
The company broke up after the presentation and nothing more is heard of the Panorama of China.
For a description of contents and presentation of the show, see the review in The Moreton Bay Courier (Brisbane, Queensland, : 1846 - 1861) of Saturday 9 July, 1859: p. 4[1]
