With The Side Show Folk (Press, 12 November 1910)

On 12 November 1910, the agricultural showground was bustling with a variety of entertainers, each vying and oftentimes struggling to grab the attention of the visitors. The atmosphere was alive with an array of methods aimed at parting guests from their money, prompting a reflection on the whereabouts of such entertainers during the off-season of agricultural shows. Among the attractions were numerous slot machines and a peculiar exhibit that promoted the chance to "See Amy Bock in wax for a penny," which drew an unexpected crowd, mainly composed of ladies, while men tended to gravitate towards the stalls of Cheap Jack, where various inexpensive items were sold. A sense of camaraderie among young couples was palpable, with bashful boys purchasing cheap "pearls" for the object of their affection, amidst the teasing of their friends. In the true spirit of a side show, many entertainers attempted to attract patrons with outlandish promotional cries. Notably, one sarcastic gentleman appealingly invited attendees to "kill the nigger" but failed to generate interest, leading to his poor spirits about the lack of success. The garishness of the side shows was complemented by the attendees who presented themselves in traditional melodramatic attire, typically involving frock coats and top hats. Additionally, another entertainer boasted about his theatre, contrasting it with competitors of lesser quality, showcasing his pride despite only possessing a cat and a dog as his main attractions. The environment buzzed with shouts from the barkers—an informal term for side show orators—who frequently promised to forfeit money if their bold statements turned out to be untrue. One notable exhibit featured a group with the tagline of a lady and "three piccaninies," which included humorous promotions that hinted at friendly competition and comedic jests for the comic relief of onlookers. Despite the attempts to draw crowds into the various shows, there remained a collective reluctance among visitors, often leading to humorous exchanges about the grandiose claims of the entertainers. In contrast, a bemedalled gentleman, embodying multi-talented flair, performed with a trumpet alongside verbal enticements, promising extraordinary performances inside his tent. The star of his attraction, a modestly dressed Japanese lady, was also double-tasking as she managed entrance fees. However, interest appeared to wane, showcasing a peculiar disconnect between the showmen's extravagant promotional efforts and the public's reception. Ultimately, as the day progressed, the throngs of people continued to move between the attractions, influenced by the haphazard blend of promises and performances. The show stood as a testament to the human penchant for amusement and adventure but also reminded attendees that the greatest enjoyment may very well lie in the anticipation of the spectacle itself.

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