It is very important to mention magic lanterns. They were being used throughout the 19th century for lecture presentations in halls, private libraries and for novelty entertainment in private houses. In Sidmouth touring companies offered these services and then a local photographer, Arthur W, Ellis purchased one. Local people used his services for their lectures and the beginnings of cinema developed from these slide shows. With the invention of moving pictures on a Bioscope projector, Mr. Ellis again purchased a model and his early picture shows in Sidmouth progressed to a permanent cinema building in the town.

A Magic Lantern show.