Yunnan acrobats rule at Kazakhstan Int'l Circus Fest

A group of acrobats from Southwest China's Yunnan Province has won out at the 2013 Kazakhstan International Circus Festival. They share their experiences hot on the heels of the big win.

A group of acrobats from Southwest China's Yunnan Province has won out at the 2013 Kazakhstan International Circus Festival. They share their experiences hot on the heels of the big win.

This group of young acrobats from the Yunnan Acrobatic Troupe has just come back with a big honor: the golden award from the Kazakhstan Int'l Circus Festival. Their show has stood out among 13 programs from 5 countries, including Russia, the United States, France and Italy.

Their acrobatic program features joyous music, unique costumes and creative choreography, which has stunned the audience at the festival.

"We were very excited but tired after the show. But people from the audience kept showing up outside our dressing rooms, asking to take photos with us. We didn't even have time to change clothes. " Acrobat Yang Junping said.

The inspiration behind the show is the diverse ethnic culture of Yunnan Province, home to most of China's 55 ethnic groups. The show incorporates draw-dropping acrobatic techniques with folk elements.

"The program is based on a traditional performance of the Yi ethnic group. It not only showcases a high level of acrobatic skills, but also folk dancing that conveys messages of happiness and joy. I think that's what moved the audience." Yunnan Acrobatic Troupe president Zhang Jianye said.

Next the Yunnan Acrobatic Troupe plans to promote the show to theatres. They hope to achieve bigger commercial success following the international acclaim.