Fairy Theatres. Paper theatres were very popular during the 19th century and up until television was introduced. The sets and characters were cut out of books and paper sheets and strengthened with strips of wood so the characters stood up and could be moved around the stage according to the story depicted. It was common for father to direct the show, sons to move the characters and sets around and mother and the girls to be the audience. These theatres have become very popular collectables. Reference: Museum of Applied Art and Sciences.
Below are some examples and price guides of fairy theatres or paper toy theatres including a story book theatre and a Luftiges Rafperl Theater
A wonderful story book theater with charming imagery. Box opens up and fold out to an elaborate stage. By turning the knobs, the stories start to rotate and reveal colorful illustrations of fairy tales across the stage. The triangular header which shows a fairy with some gnomes and cherubs goes across the top to keep the side panels open. (Audience in box seats). Very old Victorian toy
Sold for US$550 at Dan Morphy Auctions in 2018
c1900 German Toy Theatre Puppet Playset w/ Set Pieces on a large wood base.
Measurements in inches: 30 x 28 base
Sold for US$250 at Lodestar Auctions in 2021
Luftiges Rafperl Theater
Sold for US$375 at Thomaston Place Auction Galleries in 2023
Sold for US$300 at Old Toy Soldier Auctions USA in 2021