The present invention provides a multiplexed matrix alternating current electroluminescent display, comprising an array of matrix addressed capacitively switchable electroluminescent pixels, with each capacitively switchable electroluminescent pixel including an electroluminescent pixel and a circuit element connected in electrical series with the electroluminescent pixel. The circuit element is switchable between an electrically insulating capacitive state and an electrically conducting state depending upon a voltage applied across the capacitively switchable electroluminescent pixel. The matrix multiplexed electroluminescent (EL) display with the low capacitance switching device in electrical series with the electroluminescent pixels reduces column displacement currents, thereby reducing power consumption. Refresh times can also be reduced so that the size and resolution of passive matrix electroluminescent displays can be increased.