The Przystawik Family & Dancing Fountains: A Legacy of Water, Light, and Music Spectaculars

Just as the Wallenda family is renowned for their high wire acts and the Zambelli family for their fireworks displays, the Przystawik family is known for their musical fountain shows. For three generations, the Przystawiks have gained international recognition as the world’s foremost leaders in water, light, and music productions.

In the 1920s, German inventor Otto Przystawik had an idea to combine the beauty of fountains with the gracefulness of ballet and music. He created “Przystawik’s Dancing Fountains” on a small scale for display in restaurants and stores.

However, World War II interrupted his work, and he resumed it in 1950 by creating an impressive fountain show at the Resi Ballroom and restaurant in Berlin. Accompanied by live music, the spectacular display quickly became a popular local attraction.

In 1952, the dancing fountains appeared at an exhibition in Berlin, where they captured the attention of a brilliant New York showman, Harold Steinman. Enthralled by the beauty and spectacle of the shows, Steinman purchased dozens over the next several decades. He named them the “Dancing Waters,” and his New York company sent the shows on tour throughout the United States and the rest of the world.

During the 1950s, Otto and his son, Gunter, worked together in their German factory, advancing their musical fountain designs. In 1965, Gunter moved to Florida and, with the passing of his father, continued the development of the family craft. After several dramatic breakthroughs, he named his new shows the “Waltzing Waters®” to distinguish them from the older “dancing fountains” designed by his father.

Today, Michael Przystawik is at the helm and has incorporated the latest space-age technology, creating even more advanced designs. Heralding the dawn of a new millennium, “Waltzing Waters® – Liquid Fireworks®” continue to set the world standard for water, light, and music spectaculars.

The Przystawik family has left an indelible mark on the world of fountain shows, combining the natural beauty of water with the artistry of music and light. Their “Waltzing Waters®” have dazzled audiences around the globe, with displays that feature intricate choreography, stunning visuals, and an array of musical genres.

The shows are a testament to the Przystawik family’s dedication to innovation, creativity, and excellence. Their legacy lives on through the spectacular fountain displays that continue to inspire and delight audiences worldwide.

Visit Another Cape Coral, FL historic landmark: Saratoga Lake Park