Breakdancing's Early Pioneer: Calypso Leads the Way
The Calypso ride, an iconic amusement attraction, first made its debut at the Oktoberfest in 1958. Originated by German manufacturer Mack Rides, this thrilling ride has been a popular staple at festivals ever since.
The Calypso ride is characterised by its large rotating arm and gondolas that swing and spin, creating a dynamic, centrifugal force-driven experience for riders. Over the decades, it has evolved in terms of theme and placement, but its essential mechanical design and appeal have remained.
Initially introduced around the late 1950s, the Calypso has been owned and operated by various showmen, with adaptations and relocations being part of its history. One notable example is the transformation or rebranding efforts, such as the ride being rethemed to "Tiki Twirl" or otherwise adapted for freshness at some amusement parks [1].
At the Oktoberfest, the Calypso has maintained its core mechanical structure with only incremental improvements in safety and aesthetic retheming to suit changing tastes and festival designs. The ride's return to the Oktoberfest in 2010 for the Wiesn jubilee marked a significant event, symbolising its enduring popularity and cultural presence as a classic thrill ride [2].
Contrary to popular belief, the Calypso is not a wild ride like breakdance. Instead, it's described as a slightly calmer version of the dance style, providing relaxation for its riders. The ride's Caribbean influences are evident in its aesthetic, contributing to its unique charm [3].
Despite its relation to breakdance, the Calypso maintains a more tranquil atmosphere. The gondolas in the Calypso move rapidly but not recklessly, ensuring a thrilling yet controlled experience for all riders.
As of now, the Calypso is the last of its kind operating worldwide, making it a truly special attraction at the Oktoberfest. Its operation at the festival has a history spanning over six decades, and it continues to be a major attraction today.
References:
[1] Calypso Ride. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Calypso_(Mack_ride)
[2] Calypso Ride at Oktoberfest. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.oktoberfest.de/en/attractions/rides/calypso.html
[3] Calypso Ride. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.mackrides.com/en/rides/calypso.html
The Calypso ride, despite being a tranquil attraction, gains much attention through its unique, Caribbean-inspired aesthetic. This iconic amusement ride, which has been a mainstay at festivals since the late 1950s, also makes an appearance on various social media platforms, showcasing its entertainment value to modern audiences.
