I was wondering and wanting to start a discussion abou tthe first Stage Hypnosis shows. Where were they held? What time period? What did they consist of?

Dede 'hypnotized' some animals when he performed for King Cheops. However, this is probably not what you mean.
It is generally accepted that the rudiments of hypnosis date back to these Egyptian courts and also to ancient Greece.
Hypnotism in it's modern and more scientific form only dates back to the mid-1700's, with the work of Franz Anton Mesmer and his publication of the book on "Animal Magnetism."
The word hypnosis itself goes back to the early 1800's and is attributed to Doctor James Braid. He begun his interest in the field after watching a stage performance of what was then still called mesmerism.
What we can gather then is that stage hypnotism is almost as old as the technique itself.

Thanks for the response but I am talking about pure performance Hypnosis. I know that Hypnosis in a clinical setting goes back about three thousand years to sleep temple in ancient Egypt.

As it turns out, Mozart was very close to Mesmer. Mozart actually talked Mesmer into demonstrating his art specifically as a form of theatrical entertainment.
Mesmer's shows included lighting effects and musicians.
That's about as show business as it gets.

Interesting, I would like some other specifics on Vaudville and other eras I find the whole thing fascinating

Get a copy of Alison Winter's MESMERIZED as it does talk about 18th and 19th century theatrical performances. Also, Mesmer learned animal magnetism from Father Hel who was performing cures on a stage in the street. It's also a great read if you have interests in clinical hypnosis history as well as literary portrayals and where our contemporary stereotypes and misconceptions come from.

All the best,
Brian

Hi Hypnodoc,

Here is a link to a short article on my website about the history of stage hypnosis, as I am a British stage hypnotist the information is slanted slightly in that direction. http://www.hypnoticexperience.co.uk/page15.htm
I hope it is of interest.

Kind Regards.
David Regan.

Thanks for that David. Very interesting.

Anthony

This has been a great thread so far thank you all

Hypno, thanks for the link.....