18th-century mechanical theatre

An 18th-century mechanical theatre was a technology of tricks and devices that changed scenes almost miraculously. With nothing of this scale from history surviving, watch as exhibition designer, Patrick Burnier and his team recreate a spectacular mechanical theatre for the exhibition, Opera: Passion, Power and Politics.

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Visitors to the exhibition will be able to watch regular performances of a galleon cast adrift in a storm, with the odd mermaid. With additional commentary from theatre historian, Professor Christopher Baugh and scenic designer, Simon Bayer.