Exclusive Kato 'Mini Diorama Circus' rolling stock

[NeMo]

For those that appreciate whimsy!

Spent yesterday at the BRM model railway show in Birmingham, helping out on the Kato stand. As well as showing off the new EC-1 controller with Sound Box, the Mini Diorama Circus was on view. Hiroshi-san gifted me these lovely wagons afterwards. Not sure how widely available they are -- perhaps only sold at Circus events? Anyway, they have artwork designed by Akiko Takasaki, each side of the wagon featuring a different message or picture. If you've seen recent Kato publications like the STEAM booklet, they're consistent with that, and with the whimsical style featured on the Sekisui Mainline website and publications.

 

They come as (very simple) kits that take about 30 seconds to assemble. UK price was £10 a piece, which seems reasonable for a novelty model. Although designed as something suitable for the tight curves of the Mini Diorama kits, I think they could just as easily be used on a real layout for a 'real' circus train. Perhaps parked up in a siding with a couple of N-scale elephants on a loading platform?

Incidentally, the EC-1 controller was a definite hit! Well worth trying out when you get the chance. Children were magnetically drawn to it, such that we had to somewhat encourage them to take turns so others could get a go!