Cinelab: Journey Through the History of Cinema in Syracuse

Tucked away in the heart of Syracuse, a captivating journey through the annals of cinema awaits. Cinelab invites visitors to step back in time, exploring the origins of moving images through hands-on experiences with historical instruments. From the captivating camera obscura to the alluring kinetoscope, this immersive exhibition promises to uncover the machinery powering the silver screen. But the adventure doesn’t end there – attendees can even try their hand at the ancient craft of film repair, unearthing the textures that defined an era.

Key Points

1. Participants engage in an immersive exploration of the pre-cinema era, examining the camera obscura and kinetoscope to gain insight into the origins of cinema.

2. Hands-on learning of film repair techniques at the film-passing table fosters a deeper appreciation for the evolution of the artistic medium.

3. Examination of historical instruments like the camera obscura and kinetoscope provides a tangible connection to cinema’s past.

4. Exclusive screening of a silent film restored by Cineteca dello Stretto transports attendees to the bygone era of flickering images.

5. Participants have the opportunity to learn film repair techniques, an essential skill before digital technology, and gain appreciation for the labor required to maintain early film formats.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Immersive Exploration of Pre-Cinema

As participants step into CineLab, they embark on an immersive exploration of the pre-cinema era, uncovering the machinery and instruments that paved the way for the art of moving images.

They examine the captivating camera obscura and the revolutionary kinetoscope, gaining insight into the origins of cinema.

Through hands-on interactions, they discover the intricate process of film repair, preserving an ancient craft that’s essential to the preservation of cinematic history.

This immersive experience allows participants to connect with the tangible roots of the moving image, fostering a deeper appreciation for the evolution of this artistic medium.

Uncovering the Machinery of Moving Images

Participants at CineLab explore the captivating machinery that laid the foundation for the art of moving images. They examine instruments like the camera obscura and kinetoscope, marveling at these early innovations.

At the film-passing table, they learn hands-on film repair techniques, preserving an ancient craft. Touching historical materials and surfaces, they gain a tangible connection to cinema’s past.

The workshop offers a rare opportunity to intimately engage with the pre-cinema era, uncovering the ingenuity and creativity that paved the way for the moving image as we know it today.

Instruments of the Past: Camera Obscura and Kinetoscope

The camera obscura and kinetoscope were two remarkable instruments that paved the way for the birth of cinema. These optical devices allowed users to view moving images, hinting at the cinema’s eventual development. Participants of the CineLab workshop had the opportunity to examine these historical instruments firsthand.

| Camera Obscura | Kinetoscope |

|—————-|————|

| Projected images on a screen | Viewed moving images through a peephole |

| Used natural light | Used electric light |

| Established principles of optics | Demonstrated persistence of vision |

| Dated back to ancient Greece | Invented in the late 1800s |

Hands-on experiences with these artifacts enriched the CineLab workshop, offering a tangible connection to cinema’s origins.

Preserving the Ancient Craft of Film Repair

One of the highlights of the CineLab workshop was the opportunity to learn film repair techniques at the film-passing table.

Participants were taught the ancient craft of preserving old films, an essential skill in the era before digital technology. They learned how to carefully handle fragile frames, splice broken sections, and clean the film surface.

This hands-on experience allowed them to connect with the tactile nature of cinema’s history. By repairing and preserving these relics, participants gained a deeper appreciation for the labor and dedication required to maintain the integrity of early film formats.

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Touching the Textures of Cinematic History

As they toured the CineLab workshop, participants couldn’t help but be captivated by the tactile textures that surrounded them.

They marveled at the weathered surfaces of the vintage cameras and projectors, each bearing the marks of a storied history.

The film-passing table, with its intricate mechanisms, invited visitors to gently run their fingers along the celluloid reels, experiencing the materiality that defined cinema’s early days.

This hands-on exploration allowed participants to forge a deeper connection with the evolution of filmmaking, blending the past and present in a sensory journey through the annals of cinematic history.

Exclusive Screening of a Restored Silent Film

Though the workshop allowed participants to intimately engage with the tools and materials of cinema’s past, the highlight of the CineLab experience was the exclusive screening of a silent film restored by Cineteca dello Stretto. Transporting attendees to the bygone era of flickering images, the screening immersed them in the sensory journey of old-time cinema. As the lights dimmed, the audience was captivated by the grainy, soft-edged visuals and the rhythmic whir of the projector. The experience evoked a sense of wonder and nostalgia, leaving participants with a newfound appreciation for the art form’s evolution.

| Screening Experience | Visual Immersion | Sensory Journey |

|———————|—————–|—————-|

| Exclusive screening of a silent film | Grainy, soft-edged visuals | Rhythmic whir of the projector |

| Restored by Cineteca dello Stretto | Flickering images | Sense of wonder and nostalgia |

| Transporting attendees to the past | Captivating the audience | |

Capturing the Essence of Old-Time Cinema

Alongside the exclusive silent film screening, participants of the CineLab workshop received a cherished memento to commemorate their journey through cinema’s history.

As part of the experience, guests were treated to a Polaroid photo taken with period instrumentation. This unique keepsake captured the essence of the old-time cinema atmosphere, preserving the tactile and sensory elements of the workshop.

From the antique camera used to snap the photo to the classic print developing process, the memento embodied the bygone era of filmmaking that the CineLab event so expertly explored and celebrated.

Essential Details for Your Visit

To make the most of your CineLab experience, it’s important to note a few key details. Arrive 10 minutes early to the meeting point, as the workshop is carefully timed. The experience is available in both Italian and English, ensuring everyone can fully engage. Plus, participants receive a unique Polaroid photo, capturing the essence of their journey through cinema’s history.

| Details | Information |

| — | — |

| Meeting Point | Arrive 10 minutes early |

| Language | Italian and English |

| Memento | Polaroid photo |

| Cancellation | Up to 24 hours in advance for full refund |

This immersive workshop offers a captivating exploration of cinema’s evolution, from pre-cinema machinery to the art of film preservation.

Ask Away

Is This Activity Suitable for Children?

The activity may not be best suited for young children, as it focuses on historical cinema equipment and techniques that could be less engaging for them. However, older children interested in film history may find it an enriching experience.

Can We Take Photos or Videos During the Workshop?

Participants are allowed to take photos and videos during the workshop, capturing the unique experience of exploring historical cinema equipment and screenings. However, they’re encouraged to be mindful and respectful of the activities and other attendees.

Do Participants Need Any Special Equipment or Attire?

Participants don’t need any special equipment or attire for the workshop. Casual, comfortable clothing is recommended as they’ll be engaging with historical film materials and equipment. The focus is on the immersive learning experience.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Workshop?

Yes, there is an option to extend the duration of the workshop. Participants can choose to add an extra 30 minutes to the 1.5 hour experience for an additional cost, allowing more time to explore the historical cinema exhibits.

Are There Any Discounts or Group Rates Available?

Yes, the CineLab workshop offers group discounts. Bookings of 4 or more participants receive a 10% discount. Plus, youth (under 18) and students receive a 20% discount off the regular price per person. Inquire about these options when making your reservation.

Final Words

Cinelab: Journey Through the History of Cinema in Syracuse offers a truly unique and immersive experience. Visitors can explore the origins of moving images, try their hand at film repair, and even catch a screening of a restored silent film. With its hands-on activities and nostalgic atmosphere, this cinematic exploration is a must-visit for any film enthusiast or history buff.

You can check availability for your dates here: