RONCALLI – MACHT DER MANEGE tells the exciting story of Bernhard Paul, who nobody believed could found a circus and who went on to build one of Germany’s most popular entertainment brands. A journey that began almost 50 years ago with a dream of a circus, brought with it tough battles and culminated in a success story: a circus that today performs in New York in front of stars such as Robert De Niro, Anne Hathaway and Scarlett Johansson. A man who brought poetry and magic back into the world in the 70s and 80s with his vision and made people dream again in a time of crisis.

The gripping series takes a look behind the scenes and shows the adventurous path Bernhard Paul had to take to realize his dream of a circus. For the first time, the Paul family, which also includes TV star Lili Paul-Roncalli, let the cameras get so close to them: from Cologne to Mallorca and Vienna to New York. Exclusive insights into their private lives and backstage moments from the New York premiere. Together, the Pauls, their companions and skeptics relive the “Journey to the Rainbow” once again before one of the last great circus patriarchs rings the bell for everything that comes after with its 50th anniversary in 2026. The future of the circus. And of “Circus Roncalli” – but Paul’s footsteps are huge.

Marc Lepetit, producer of UFA Documentary: “Producing documentaries sometimes has one big advantage – you get to meet the heroes of your childhood. I still remember my first encounter with Zippo in the early 80s, Pic’s bubbles, that unique atmosphere, the smell, the feeling that you associate with Roncalli. We tell the story of the fascination and magic of the early days and show what power the circus ring still has today. A timepiece, a founding story and a piece of encouragement that you can do anything if you want to.”

Simon Tanschek, director and producer of UFA Documentary: “‘Without Roncalli, we wouldn’t exist,’ said Guy Laliberté, founder of Cirque Du Soleil.
As a child, I always wanted to be in the circus myself, now I’m right in the middle of it. Bernhard Paul brought storytelling to the circus world and inspired me with his real David versus Goliath story. I am grateful for his great trust in allowing me to reveal this story, which was previously hidden behind the curtain, even with his opponents at the time. A story that sounds so incredible and motivating and that no one would suspect to be behind the magic of the ring.”

Lukas Hoffmann, director: “I was fascinated by how Bernhard Paul created an empire out of nothing from a small traveling circus. And I was amazed that this story has never been told before in all its ups and downs.”

Christoph Mathieu, dramaturge and author: “I remember the circuses of my childhood very well and the fact that they were also very present on television and provided great entertainment. It really appealed to me to bring this now almost forgotten circus world back to television – as a docu-drama that provides great entertainment in a very modern way.”