Zahs speaks before a Brinton presentation in Ainsworth in 2015. Photo by Sally Y. Hart

A form of entertainment that was popular centuries ago will be featured by local historian Michael Zahs at the Ainsworth Opera House this week. Zahs, who has been working with the Brinton collection of magic lantern slides and early motion pictures, explains they were the top form of entertainment in the United States in the 18th and 19th centuries. The magic lantern that will be used to project the slides Friday evening is about 100 years old. The slides will be accompanied by Red Cedar Chamber Music.

Also, before the hand painted magic lantern slides are shown, a dinner will be held with a menu akin to what would’ve been served in the 1890s.

There are still seats available for the March 18th show, to reserve tickets contact Zahs at (319) 653-6250.