None of the people I talked to at the day job had ever heard of Charles Band. Frankly, I couldn't believe it. Now, I am not the most fluent in the ways of Band, and it has been many, uh, moons since I have watched any of his films. Although, I must say that they do hold a special place for me. I mean, who doesn't like watching killer puppets and strange creatures? Charles Band has displayed amazing longevity and creativity in the realm of low budget horror filmmaking.

This year, Mr.Band has taken his show on the road, perhaps expose more people to his brand of gory mayhem, maybe draw in a whole new legion of fans. One of those fateful spots was Poughkeepsie, NY, The Chance Theater, to be exact. I was sure to be there, if only to reintroduce myself to the world of maniacal puppets, and perhaps meet the mad ringmaster of this demented circus. I was also hoping on picking up some of those films.

I got to the venue, and waited with rather smallish crowd for the doors to open. Once inside I made a beeline for the merchandise table, gazing over the stacks of DVDs and the boxed dolls and statues, including the limited edition Bronze Blade. Over on the other side of the room was another table, this one selling movie posters and t-shirts. In between them was a Plexiglas case containing three original puppets used during the filming, these were to be auctioned off during the show. The puppets were Ooga Booga (Doll Graveyard), Tiny, and the ever popular Blade.

I made my way back to the doll and DVD table where I started picking up my selections, including the first Puppet Master and Subspecies, I also snagged Castle Freak and the new The Gingerdead Man (not yet in stores, and only available on three of the stops so far). I also made sure to get one of those Bronze Blade statues. These are only available at the show stops with thirty available at each show, 1000 total, mine is number 207.

Before I get to the show I must mention the coolest thing about the merchandise. If you purchase $100 or more of merchandise you will get the title of Executive Producer of Charles' next film, Petrified. You get a signed certificate, and you will appear in the credits. Not to mention a listing at IMDB.com, and the Guinness Book of World Records, as this will be the most executive producers for one film. Guess who will be among them? Yep, me.