A corner of the north midway has been transformed into Tumbleweed Crossing, a small town from the Wild West where fairgoers can witness a live, action-packed shootout.
Photo by Elijah Knodell
LIMA — Just a few steps off the north midway at the Allen County Fairgrounds, guests might find themselves standing in the middle of the Wild West … or at least a convincing replica.
But when Tumbleweed Crossing kicks off its action-packed performance, live gunfire and cowboy shootouts make the detailed set come to life.
The zany four-person cast fires off plenty of rounds during the 25-minute show, which has been transporting fair-goers back in time to witness gunslinging action several times each day for the duration of the fair.
But though the bullets come fast, the jokes come faster. The audience who packed the bleachers to watch the show on Thursday afternoon were entertained by the fast-paced action as well as the needed comic relief.
While the family-friendly show is aimed at all generations, kids will find the performance most enthralling. And though the gunshots could be startling to some, the actors take time to prepare the audience for the volume in advance of the performance, as well as to provide some gun safety tips.
After the show ends, Tumbleweed Crossing’s visitors have the opportunity for a meet-and-greet with members of the cast, and they can grab a quick photo with a cowboy to have a souvenir of their journey to the Wild West.
Though the bulk of the performances have been completed, there are still opportunities to see the show for yourself as this year’s Allen County Fair dwindles down. Visitors have three opportunities to make the trip to Tumbleweed Crossing Friday during the show’s final performances, at 2:30 p.m., 5:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Admission is free.
