OK, slightly dramatic post title, given that all the policemen did was refuse to allow us access to the park whilst the International Religious Tolerance Conference were being entertained near the entrance, but it did add an extra half hour or so to our attempt to get into the park with Anna. They were at least very polite, rather than gruff and menacing, as I had expected some of them to be.
Anyway, we walked around (once we’d found a side entrance not guarded) whilst preparations for Astana Day carried on in the park, but don’t worry, no repetitive yurt shots this time 🙂 We had previously only caught the very end of some acts that had an area set aside for them within the park. Whilst my Russian wasn’t very good that day, I could tell when the performers’ MC had asked for any donations into a hat, as a lot of people who had previously been enthralled suddenly discovered what the time was, and had to make a sharp exit. Anyway, this time we were lucky, as despite our detour, we didn’t miss much of the show. The acts were all from Uzbekistan I think, with the old guy on the tightrope easily having the most charisma, even from 30 foot up in the air, dancing away and smiling at everyone, he was definitely a seasoned performer. Enough of the wittering, onto the pictures… (Oh, click the link after the first few pics to see more, if you’re viewing this post on the front page.)
Anna In Training For Crowded Buses
Bird Of Prey In Astana Park
Small Boy. Big Snake.
Balancing Heavy Weights On Your Chin. Because You Can...
Oldest (Apparently, In Central Asia) Tightrope Walker. Small Girl Balancing On His Shoulders.