European Sideshow
Donation protected
Keeping the European Fairground Show Tradition Alive
Can you help me save the vintage fairground shows of Europe? I have already saved a few classic fairground shows and illusions. Now I have a chance to save one of the best yet I have just acquired and am restoring and upgrading a vintage traveling theater that will help keep the European fairground show tradition alive.
The Wonderful History of the European Fairground Show
The fairground show was once a common site all over Europe. The fairs rolled into cities and towns in Germany, The Netherlands, Belgium and beyond. Elaborate and ornate theaters, made of metal, wood and canvas, appeared overnight and dotted the fairgrounds between the rides and the games. Showmen delighted fair-goers with dramas, marionette shows, variety shows, fakir shows, flea circuses, magic and illusion shows, boxing shows, anatomy museums and, when the sun went down and the fairground lights lit up, the burlesque and pin-up model shows opened up their ticket-boxes as the adults only “night shows” took over when the family shows shut down for the day.
The showmen were the celebrities of their day. The small town newspapers were filled with tales of their exploits and the wonders that their shows contained. This long tradition had its heyday from the 1920s through the 1960s, and some shows having great interest into the 1980s.
A Proud Tradition, Now in Danger
The outdoor fair show is now an endangered species. Only a few remain. The fun fairs are now dominated by mega-rides and mechanical games. There are a few fairs keeping vintage rides alive, but less that are concerned about the shows.
Many of the classic fun fair shows are rusting in storage or being sold for scrap-metal. It has been my goal to rescue some of these shows and give them a few more years of life as fully functioning, working and touring attractions; to put them where they were meant to be, on the fun fairs in front of the public, showing the people of the modern day the type of shows that thrilled their parents and grand-parents and still fascinates and entertains.
I Have Helped Save Some Shows Already
This is not just a fanciful notion of mine; this is something I have done before. I have already bought some vintage shows, fixed and restored them and put them in front of the public.
The oldest show I have done this with is an anatomical museum which dates from the 1920s. It toured under various owners such as Mr. Miller, Bodet and John Duijns who toured with it until the 1990s and then put it into storage. I purchased it in late 2013 and in its new incarnation it has appeared at events like the Hachenburg Town Fair & Festival, Germany and others.
Museum Anatomie in 1990 at the fair in Den Haag, Netherlands, at that time owned and run by John Duijns. From the book Kijkwerk (K. Loeff, H. van Oers)
I also have an outdoor theater/tent that was constructed in the 1940s in The Netherlands. This theater has an audience capacity of 40. This theater is what I use to show the anatomical museum and also live acts and illusions. I have presented the Girl to Gorilla Show and the Headless Lady illusion, as well as the Miss Volta Electric Chair act and the Half-Lady illusion. All of these are vintage illusions from the shows that toured from the 1950s-1980s. These illusions have found new life with shows that were presented at the Circus & Co Festival at Leuven, Belgium, the Winter Festival at Bokrijk, Belgium, Halloween Festival Tienen, Belgium among other fairs and festivals
"Panoptikum - Grand Musée Anatomique"
at the Hachenburg Town Fair & Festival 2014
Headless Girl Illusion presented at the 1993 fun fair in Tilburg, Netherlands. At that time it was owned and presented by John Duijns and before him B. Vermeulen. Both the tent/theater and the illusion are currently owned by Paradox Sideshows. From the book Kijkwerk (K. Loeff, H. van Oers)
Mr. Miller's Shows: The Legacy Lives On
In 2007 I bought the Mr. Miller Show, which was founded in the mid-60s by the renowned German-English artist and sideshow entrepreneur Benno Miller ( 1926-1996 ). I was fortunate that Mr. Miller had his headquarters in a small village near the town where I grew up. I was able to buy some of his shows from his widow and rescued them from the warehouse and brought them back under sunny fairground skies.
I toured with both The Mister Miller Show, which was from the 1980s and his other big show, Miller's Moulin Rouge Show. The Moulin Rouge Show was built in 1951 before being acquired by Miller who totally restyled it in 1978/79. After Mr. Miller's death it went into storage where it remained for more than 20 years.
I bought it in 2011, restored it and put it back on tour and onto the festivals and fairs. The restored Miller's Moulin Rouge Show show has entertained audiences at Izegem, Belgium Zomert Festival, the Düren, Germany vintage kermis, the Geleen, Netherlands kermis and the Winter Festival at Bokrijk, Belgium.
Mr. Miller's Moulin Rouge Show in use in 2013
The New Show: Revue der Illusionen
I have just acquired a huge vintage mobile show-theater that will make presenting these shows much more affordable, practical and realizable. The specifics of th mobile theater are such that the transportation, set-up and tear-down are much easier and cost effective. The savings in labor, time and money will allow the show easier access to more fairs and festivals and free up capital so that I can concentrate on presenting better and more elaborate shows.
The show theater is called Revue der Illusionen. It a complete truck mounted theater that can be set up by a small crew in less than a day. It was built in 1985 and was an updated version of a show that was built in 1958. I has been a regular attraction at Octoberfest in Munich. This spacious and ornate theater has an audiance capacity of 250 people.
The show includes a bunkhouse that has 3 rooms for performers, a fully functioning kitchen and a shower room.
The show being built up
When I saw that the Revue der Illusionen was for sale and I feared that if I do not make an effort to acquire it will go into storage or worse, or fall into the hands of someone who may disassemble and re-purpose it. All of these options would take the show away from the eyes of the fair-going public.
In late 2014 I put together a business plan and with the help of investors and bank loans I successfully purchased the show at during its Octoberfest run. I will soon be taking the show out on the road with bookings at several fairs and festivals.
Help Me Save This Show
I have started this crowd-funding project seeking funds to help with restoration and maintenance of the theater and bunkhouse. Although the show is fairly new as far as vintage shows go, it has seen many years on the road and has the wear and tear to prove it. .I have already started completely redoing the interior of the performers quarters, one of which showed signs of small cigarette induced fire between the walls.
. I am not asking you to buy the whole show for me. I have used a substantial amount of my own funds to finance this project and I have 2 investors who are going into this project with me. What I am seeking is enough funds to insure the start up, restoration and repair costs as well as to help with the expenses of getting the theater running as a viable business that will tour for years to come.
Inside the Show
Why Crowdfunding?
You have probably gotten a lot of requests for crowd-funding from other people for other projects and you might even be confused by the whole crowd-funding process.
When you give to this crowd-funding project you are showing your support of the idea of keeping the European fairground shows alive, and supporting all fairground shows in general. This is not a store where you buy something, although there are incentive gifts if you donate certain amounts of money.
This is not an investment, although in a way it is; you are investing in the future of fairground shows and your investment pays of when you see that the shows out and working and entertain people on the fairs.
This is not a charity or a non-profit, you are helping out a business, just as you support the business when you buy an entry ticket to the show. The world has become dominated by mega-corporations and media monopolies who care nothing of the small-live entertainment shows. Crowd-funding projects like this one have enabled independent creative business to stay on the playing field. Many incredible books, movies, performances, exhibitions and even museums have been successfully crowd-funded. These same businesses and creations would otherwise not exist if it were not for this new and unique style of financing.
Show Your Support
When you add your funds to this project, you will know that with your help there is still a way to keep the fairground shows going in the real world.
What if I don't Live in Europe?
What if you don't live in Europe? What if you live in a country like the USA where you will likely never get a chance to see one of these shows in person?
If you live in the USA or another non-European country, even if your funding is not for a large amount, it will help and you will benefit. I have creating a series of incentives that include digital downloads of rare audio, video and photos from the vintage fairground shows that I have restored over the years. I also I have a limited number of tangible items that have been sent to a supporter in the USA who will send these on to donors who also live in the USA. So it is possible for you to own a real part of European show history.
Your support, no matter the size of your funding, shows that there are people all over the world who care about this type of endeavor. Remember, this fund raiser is not just about restoration, repair and maintenance funds for the show; it also shows the other investors that that there is a wide interest in this style of entertainment. The more interest shown on to this crowd-funding project, in both numbers of people and money given, the more confidence the other investors will have and the more likely they will be to invest in other projects like this in the future.
We will be giving status updates at the project progresses, as well as blogs that will show the history of the new show and of the other shows I have helped save. Even if I am unable to raise the full amount of my goal or am unable to purchase the new show, 100% of money you give will go towards the restoration and maintenance of the anatomy museum and the existing theaters. The costs of keep these shows road-worthy while protecting their historical value is ongoing. You will receive written and photographic updates show just how your donation is being put to use.
Hopefully one day you will come and enjoy the restored show. Find me and I will shake your hand and thank you for helping me keep a wonderful tradition alive!
Testimonials:
"I grew up on the fun fairs of Europe. My family and I ran some of the most famous show theaters in the business. Dominik Schmitiz is the only person I know who seems sincerely dedicated to keeping the European show tradition alive and preserving this vintage style of entertainment." John Duijns - Studio 7 Shows
"...the last real showman, in the traditional meaning of showman, in Germany." Radio Erft - Cologne
www.radioerft.de/erft/re/1278017/bilderalben
More Information
Web Page for Paradox Sideshow:
http://www.paradox-sideshows.com/
Facebook Page for Paradox Sideshows:
Paradox Sideshows on Facebook
Article about Dominik Schmitz (in German):
Wie wird man eigentlich Schaubudenbesitzer, Herr Schmitz?
(How to become a show booth owner, Mr. Schmitz?)
Another Article about Dominik Schmitz (in German):
http://wp.profipress.de/?p=16485
(It All Began with the Headless Lady)
Below is a list of Incentive Gifts for Donations
Additional incentive gifts and levels are being added.
All levels: Updates and progress reports
If you contribute any amount at any level you will receive updates and progress reports on the new show as well as updates on restoration and exhibitions of existing shows.
€5: Thank You
Thank you, you are a supporter of the vintage fun fair entertainment and we thank you for helping keep the shows alive.
€10: Digital Press Packet Download
You will get a digital download/PDF file of the Paradox Sideshows booking packet and show information.
€15: Mr Miller Bally Recording Audio Download
You get a digital download of recording of Mr. Miller doing an outside bally for his show. This recording is copyrighted by Paradox Sideshows and is for your personal use and enjoyment.
€20: Behind the Scenes
You will receive password protected videos of the show being packed up and set up and put in action.
€25: Internet Thank You
You will be thanked on the Paradox Sideshows web-sites and social media pages as a patron of the outdoor amusement arts
€30: Postcards
Set of 3 postcards from Paradox Sideshows sent to you.*
€35: Small Variety Packet:
You get an envelope filled with souvenirs from the shows past and present. Old tickets, brochures, handbills postcards, photos from the shows and other items that are in limited supply*
€40: Dutch Fairground Show Book
€45: Big Variety Packet
Like the small packet but with more stuff; souvenirs from the shows past and present. Old tickets, brochures, handbills postcards, photos from the shows and other items that are in limited supply*
€50: A BIG Thank You!
You are truly a patron of the arts who gives support without expecting anything in return aside from the continuation of the show. To you we give the biggest thank you that we can.
€60: Pen Pal Package
You get 3 different post-cards, mailed to you one at a time from different show locations with a personalized messages from the show people.
€75: Vintage Handbills
A vintage handbill for the anatomy museum from the 1920s, framed with a note of authentic and provenance. Only 8 available.
*
€250:Your Name in the Show Theater
Your name will be on the show. A thank you with your name (or the name of your choice) on a metal plaque that will be included as a permanent part of the show.
€400: Small Sign from Miller's Moulin Rogue Show
Own a piece of history. We are selling ONE of the signs from Mr. Miller's Moulin Rough show. This sign is from the 1970s and directs people to the stage. It is made out of wood, metal, mirror mosaic and electric lights. One of a kind. Shipping is not included.
€500: A scale model of a Fairground Show
Faller, a German toy company that specializes in model railroads and cars also made some model-kits of fairground attractions. This an HO reproduction of the Revue der Illusionen show is no longer being produced. We have only a few of these rarities available. *
*A Note to People in the USA, Canada and other non-European Counties:
If you make a donation that gives you an incentive gift that is physical such as a variety packet or book there may be a delay in receiving your item as it will have to be sent overseas. A package of items are being sent to a sponsor in the USA who will then send the items on to you. You will receive updates and information about your order letting you know the progress of the fulfillment.
A Note on European Events and Shows:
Most of the following offers are for locations and events based in continental Europe. You are responsible for your own transportation to these events, and they may be better suited for people who already are in Europe. Although Paradox Sideshows can not help you with the cost of coming to these locations we can offer you advice on low-cost ways to get to and to travel in Europe. If you are planning a trip to Europe email us and we can help make your visit more affordable.
€200: Backstage tour
You get a tour of the show and the bunkhouse. See what it is like behind the scenes at fun fair show. For one person. Travel costs not included.
€255: Private tour of the collection
You get a private tour of the collection at the curator’s home, including exhibits that are not yet on display as well as at tour of the show and bunkhouse storage location. For one person. Travel costs not included.
€350: Dine with the Show People
See the show and then come backstage with the show-people and share a meal with them and hear stories their of travels and adventure. Gabba-Gabba-Hey! For two people. Travel costs not included.
€650: Behind the Scenes Live.
Travel with Paradox Sideshows to a event site, watch the show being set up and then live on site in the bunkhouse. The full experience. For one person. Travel costs to pick-up site not incuded.
€750: lifetime pass
You get a pass for life to any show presented by Paradox Sideshows
€800: Spend the Weekend at the Fair
Live the Fun Fair Life. Spend the weekend at the fair. You get to be in the illusions in the show. Have your head or lower body removed or turn into a gorilla while your friends watch from the audience, then spend the night in the Paradox Sideshows bunkhouse. You can live the kermis lifestyle for a weekend. For one person. Travel costs are not included.
€3500: Private Event with The Museum: You get the Panoptikum - Grand Musée Anatomique for a private event for one day. Paradox Sideshows will set up the museum and exhibits for your event, indoor or out, private party, corporate function or whatever. Space 9mx7m 5m height required. Includes curator but transportation to the event is extra. This offer is for within continental Europe only. This is for Germany, Netherlands,Belgium, Luxemburg and France only.
€4000: Private Event with Small Show
Paradox Sideshows will set up the small theater/tent and provide illusions and performers for your event for one day. Have the headless lady, the girl to gorilla show or one of out other illusions or performers at you party, corporate function or other event. Space 9mx7m 5m height required. Transportation of the show is not included. This is for Germany, Netherlands,Belgium, Luxemburg and France only.
€6000: Private Event with the Big Show:
You get the Revue der Illusionen theater with performers and illusions for a private event for one day. Paradox Sideshows will set up a theater and provide performers for your event: indoors or outdoors, private party, corporate function or other event. You must have an18 x 11 m 9m high space available that is accessible to a 24 ton truck. Transportation of the show is not included. This is for Germany, Netherlands,Belgium, Luxemburg and France only.
Can you help me save the vintage fairground shows of Europe? I have already saved a few classic fairground shows and illusions. Now I have a chance to save one of the best yet I have just acquired and am restoring and upgrading a vintage traveling theater that will help keep the European fairground show tradition alive.
The Wonderful History of the European Fairground Show
The fairground show was once a common site all over Europe. The fairs rolled into cities and towns in Germany, The Netherlands, Belgium and beyond. Elaborate and ornate theaters, made of metal, wood and canvas, appeared overnight and dotted the fairgrounds between the rides and the games. Showmen delighted fair-goers with dramas, marionette shows, variety shows, fakir shows, flea circuses, magic and illusion shows, boxing shows, anatomy museums and, when the sun went down and the fairground lights lit up, the burlesque and pin-up model shows opened up their ticket-boxes as the adults only “night shows” took over when the family shows shut down for the day.
The showmen were the celebrities of their day. The small town newspapers were filled with tales of their exploits and the wonders that their shows contained. This long tradition had its heyday from the 1920s through the 1960s, and some shows having great interest into the 1980s.
A Proud Tradition, Now in Danger
The outdoor fair show is now an endangered species. Only a few remain. The fun fairs are now dominated by mega-rides and mechanical games. There are a few fairs keeping vintage rides alive, but less that are concerned about the shows.
Many of the classic fun fair shows are rusting in storage or being sold for scrap-metal. It has been my goal to rescue some of these shows and give them a few more years of life as fully functioning, working and touring attractions; to put them where they were meant to be, on the fun fairs in front of the public, showing the people of the modern day the type of shows that thrilled their parents and grand-parents and still fascinates and entertains.
I Have Helped Save Some Shows Already
This is not just a fanciful notion of mine; this is something I have done before. I have already bought some vintage shows, fixed and restored them and put them in front of the public.
The oldest show I have done this with is an anatomical museum which dates from the 1920s. It toured under various owners such as Mr. Miller, Bodet and John Duijns who toured with it until the 1990s and then put it into storage. I purchased it in late 2013 and in its new incarnation it has appeared at events like the Hachenburg Town Fair & Festival, Germany and others.
Museum Anatomie in 1990 at the fair in Den Haag, Netherlands, at that time owned and run by John Duijns. From the book Kijkwerk (K. Loeff, H. van Oers)
I also have an outdoor theater/tent that was constructed in the 1940s in The Netherlands. This theater has an audience capacity of 40. This theater is what I use to show the anatomical museum and also live acts and illusions. I have presented the Girl to Gorilla Show and the Headless Lady illusion, as well as the Miss Volta Electric Chair act and the Half-Lady illusion. All of these are vintage illusions from the shows that toured from the 1950s-1980s. These illusions have found new life with shows that were presented at the Circus & Co Festival at Leuven, Belgium, the Winter Festival at Bokrijk, Belgium, Halloween Festival Tienen, Belgium among other fairs and festivals
"Panoptikum - Grand Musée Anatomique"
at the Hachenburg Town Fair & Festival 2014
Headless Girl Illusion presented at the 1993 fun fair in Tilburg, Netherlands. At that time it was owned and presented by John Duijns and before him B. Vermeulen. Both the tent/theater and the illusion are currently owned by Paradox Sideshows. From the book Kijkwerk (K. Loeff, H. van Oers)
Mr. Miller's Shows: The Legacy Lives On
In 2007 I bought the Mr. Miller Show, which was founded in the mid-60s by the renowned German-English artist and sideshow entrepreneur Benno Miller ( 1926-1996 ). I was fortunate that Mr. Miller had his headquarters in a small village near the town where I grew up. I was able to buy some of his shows from his widow and rescued them from the warehouse and brought them back under sunny fairground skies.
I toured with both The Mister Miller Show, which was from the 1980s and his other big show, Miller's Moulin Rouge Show. The Moulin Rouge Show was built in 1951 before being acquired by Miller who totally restyled it in 1978/79. After Mr. Miller's death it went into storage where it remained for more than 20 years.
I bought it in 2011, restored it and put it back on tour and onto the festivals and fairs. The restored Miller's Moulin Rouge Show show has entertained audiences at Izegem, Belgium Zomert Festival, the Düren, Germany vintage kermis, the Geleen, Netherlands kermis and the Winter Festival at Bokrijk, Belgium.
Mr. Miller's Moulin Rouge Show in use in 2013
The New Show: Revue der Illusionen
I have just acquired a huge vintage mobile show-theater that will make presenting these shows much more affordable, practical and realizable. The specifics of th mobile theater are such that the transportation, set-up and tear-down are much easier and cost effective. The savings in labor, time and money will allow the show easier access to more fairs and festivals and free up capital so that I can concentrate on presenting better and more elaborate shows.
The show theater is called Revue der Illusionen. It a complete truck mounted theater that can be set up by a small crew in less than a day. It was built in 1985 and was an updated version of a show that was built in 1958. I has been a regular attraction at Octoberfest in Munich. This spacious and ornate theater has an audiance capacity of 250 people.
The show includes a bunkhouse that has 3 rooms for performers, a fully functioning kitchen and a shower room.
The show being built upWhen I saw that the Revue der Illusionen was for sale and I feared that if I do not make an effort to acquire it will go into storage or worse, or fall into the hands of someone who may disassemble and re-purpose it. All of these options would take the show away from the eyes of the fair-going public.
In late 2014 I put together a business plan and with the help of investors and bank loans I successfully purchased the show at during its Octoberfest run. I will soon be taking the show out on the road with bookings at several fairs and festivals.
Help Me Save This Show
I have started this crowd-funding project seeking funds to help with restoration and maintenance of the theater and bunkhouse. Although the show is fairly new as far as vintage shows go, it has seen many years on the road and has the wear and tear to prove it. .I have already started completely redoing the interior of the performers quarters, one of which showed signs of small cigarette induced fire between the walls.
. I am not asking you to buy the whole show for me. I have used a substantial amount of my own funds to finance this project and I have 2 investors who are going into this project with me. What I am seeking is enough funds to insure the start up, restoration and repair costs as well as to help with the expenses of getting the theater running as a viable business that will tour for years to come.
Inside the ShowWhy Crowdfunding?
You have probably gotten a lot of requests for crowd-funding from other people for other projects and you might even be confused by the whole crowd-funding process.
When you give to this crowd-funding project you are showing your support of the idea of keeping the European fairground shows alive, and supporting all fairground shows in general. This is not a store where you buy something, although there are incentive gifts if you donate certain amounts of money.
This is not an investment, although in a way it is; you are investing in the future of fairground shows and your investment pays of when you see that the shows out and working and entertain people on the fairs.
This is not a charity or a non-profit, you are helping out a business, just as you support the business when you buy an entry ticket to the show. The world has become dominated by mega-corporations and media monopolies who care nothing of the small-live entertainment shows. Crowd-funding projects like this one have enabled independent creative business to stay on the playing field. Many incredible books, movies, performances, exhibitions and even museums have been successfully crowd-funded. These same businesses and creations would otherwise not exist if it were not for this new and unique style of financing.
Show Your Support
When you add your funds to this project, you will know that with your help there is still a way to keep the fairground shows going in the real world.
What if I don't Live in Europe?
What if you don't live in Europe? What if you live in a country like the USA where you will likely never get a chance to see one of these shows in person?
If you live in the USA or another non-European country, even if your funding is not for a large amount, it will help and you will benefit. I have creating a series of incentives that include digital downloads of rare audio, video and photos from the vintage fairground shows that I have restored over the years. I also I have a limited number of tangible items that have been sent to a supporter in the USA who will send these on to donors who also live in the USA. So it is possible for you to own a real part of European show history.
Your support, no matter the size of your funding, shows that there are people all over the world who care about this type of endeavor. Remember, this fund raiser is not just about restoration, repair and maintenance funds for the show; it also shows the other investors that that there is a wide interest in this style of entertainment. The more interest shown on to this crowd-funding project, in both numbers of people and money given, the more confidence the other investors will have and the more likely they will be to invest in other projects like this in the future.
We will be giving status updates at the project progresses, as well as blogs that will show the history of the new show and of the other shows I have helped save. Even if I am unable to raise the full amount of my goal or am unable to purchase the new show, 100% of money you give will go towards the restoration and maintenance of the anatomy museum and the existing theaters. The costs of keep these shows road-worthy while protecting their historical value is ongoing. You will receive written and photographic updates show just how your donation is being put to use.
Hopefully one day you will come and enjoy the restored show. Find me and I will shake your hand and thank you for helping me keep a wonderful tradition alive!
Testimonials:
"I grew up on the fun fairs of Europe. My family and I ran some of the most famous show theaters in the business. Dominik Schmitiz is the only person I know who seems sincerely dedicated to keeping the European show tradition alive and preserving this vintage style of entertainment." John Duijns - Studio 7 Shows
"...the last real showman, in the traditional meaning of showman, in Germany." Radio Erft - Cologne
www.radioerft.de/erft/re/1278017/bilderalben
More Information
Web Page for Paradox Sideshow:
http://www.paradox-sideshows.com/
Facebook Page for Paradox Sideshows:
Paradox Sideshows on Facebook
Article about Dominik Schmitz (in German):
Wie wird man eigentlich Schaubudenbesitzer, Herr Schmitz?
(How to become a show booth owner, Mr. Schmitz?)
Another Article about Dominik Schmitz (in German):
http://wp.profipress.de/?p=16485
(It All Began with the Headless Lady)
Below is a list of Incentive Gifts for Donations
Additional incentive gifts and levels are being added.
All levels: Updates and progress reports
If you contribute any amount at any level you will receive updates and progress reports on the new show as well as updates on restoration and exhibitions of existing shows.
€5: Thank You
Thank you, you are a supporter of the vintage fun fair entertainment and we thank you for helping keep the shows alive.
€10: Digital Press Packet Download
You will get a digital download/PDF file of the Paradox Sideshows booking packet and show information.
€15: Mr Miller Bally Recording Audio Download
You get a digital download of recording of Mr. Miller doing an outside bally for his show. This recording is copyrighted by Paradox Sideshows and is for your personal use and enjoyment.
€20: Behind the Scenes
You will receive password protected videos of the show being packed up and set up and put in action.
€25: Internet Thank You
You will be thanked on the Paradox Sideshows web-sites and social media pages as a patron of the outdoor amusement arts
€30: Postcards
Set of 3 postcards from Paradox Sideshows sent to you.*
€35: Small Variety Packet:
You get an envelope filled with souvenirs from the shows past and present. Old tickets, brochures, handbills postcards, photos from the shows and other items that are in limited supply*
€40: Dutch Fairground Show Book
The Dutch book Kirjwerk by K. Loeff and H. van Oers; about history of fun-fair/kermis shows. Profusely illustrated with photographs of historical fairground show. Only 5 available*
€45: Big Variety Packet
Like the small packet but with more stuff; souvenirs from the shows past and present. Old tickets, brochures, handbills postcards, photos from the shows and other items that are in limited supply*
€50: A BIG Thank You!
You are truly a patron of the arts who gives support without expecting anything in return aside from the continuation of the show. To you we give the biggest thank you that we can.
€60: Pen Pal Package
You get 3 different post-cards, mailed to you one at a time from different show locations with a personalized messages from the show people.
€75: Vintage Handbills
A vintage handbill for the anatomy museum from the 1920s, framed with a note of authentic and provenance. Only 8 available.
*
€250:Your Name in the Show Theater
Your name will be on the show. A thank you with your name (or the name of your choice) on a metal plaque that will be included as a permanent part of the show.
€400: Small Sign from Miller's Moulin Rogue Show
Own a piece of history. We are selling ONE of the signs from Mr. Miller's Moulin Rough show. This sign is from the 1970s and directs people to the stage. It is made out of wood, metal, mirror mosaic and electric lights. One of a kind. Shipping is not included.
€500: A scale model of a Fairground Show
Faller, a German toy company that specializes in model railroads and cars also made some model-kits of fairground attractions. This an HO reproduction of the Revue der Illusionen show is no longer being produced. We have only a few of these rarities available. *
*A Note to People in the USA, Canada and other non-European Counties:
If you make a donation that gives you an incentive gift that is physical such as a variety packet or book there may be a delay in receiving your item as it will have to be sent overseas. A package of items are being sent to a sponsor in the USA who will then send the items on to you. You will receive updates and information about your order letting you know the progress of the fulfillment.
A Note on European Events and Shows:
Most of the following offers are for locations and events based in continental Europe. You are responsible for your own transportation to these events, and they may be better suited for people who already are in Europe. Although Paradox Sideshows can not help you with the cost of coming to these locations we can offer you advice on low-cost ways to get to and to travel in Europe. If you are planning a trip to Europe email us and we can help make your visit more affordable.
€200: Backstage tour
You get a tour of the show and the bunkhouse. See what it is like behind the scenes at fun fair show. For one person. Travel costs not included.
€255: Private tour of the collection
You get a private tour of the collection at the curator’s home, including exhibits that are not yet on display as well as at tour of the show and bunkhouse storage location. For one person. Travel costs not included.
€350: Dine with the Show People
See the show and then come backstage with the show-people and share a meal with them and hear stories their of travels and adventure. Gabba-Gabba-Hey! For two people. Travel costs not included.
€650: Behind the Scenes Live.
Travel with Paradox Sideshows to a event site, watch the show being set up and then live on site in the bunkhouse. The full experience. For one person. Travel costs to pick-up site not incuded.
€750: lifetime pass
You get a pass for life to any show presented by Paradox Sideshows
€800: Spend the Weekend at the Fair
Live the Fun Fair Life. Spend the weekend at the fair. You get to be in the illusions in the show. Have your head or lower body removed or turn into a gorilla while your friends watch from the audience, then spend the night in the Paradox Sideshows bunkhouse. You can live the kermis lifestyle for a weekend. For one person. Travel costs are not included.
€3500: Private Event with The Museum: You get the Panoptikum - Grand Musée Anatomique for a private event for one day. Paradox Sideshows will set up the museum and exhibits for your event, indoor or out, private party, corporate function or whatever. Space 9mx7m 5m height required. Includes curator but transportation to the event is extra. This offer is for within continental Europe only. This is for Germany, Netherlands,Belgium, Luxemburg and France only.
€4000: Private Event with Small Show
Paradox Sideshows will set up the small theater/tent and provide illusions and performers for your event for one day. Have the headless lady, the girl to gorilla show or one of out other illusions or performers at you party, corporate function or other event. Space 9mx7m 5m height required. Transportation of the show is not included. This is for Germany, Netherlands,Belgium, Luxemburg and France only.
€6000: Private Event with the Big Show:
You get the Revue der Illusionen theater with performers and illusions for a private event for one day. Paradox Sideshows will set up a theater and provide performers for your event: indoors or outdoors, private party, corporate function or other event. You must have an18 x 11 m 9m high space available that is accessible to a 24 ton truck. Transportation of the show is not included. This is for Germany, Netherlands,Belgium, Luxemburg and France only.
Organiser
Dominik Schmitz
Organiser
