Gambrill's school was chosen to perform and organize the mayor's New Years tree ceremony this year. This morning they put it on, in full regalia and costume. Christmas isn't celebrated in Kazakhstan because it is a mostly Muslim country. They celebrate New Years. "New Years" here is three America holidays rolled into one: Halloween, Christmas, and New Years. Kids wear costumes and meet Santa Clause...and of course celebrate the coming of a new year. It is a strange combo and quite a spectacle.
My old host sister, Gohar, is a teacher at the school now, and participated in the events. Here she is with some of the young dancers.
The PE teachers at the school decided to dress as slaves. Ha. Incredibly inappropriate by our standards but I had to take a picture.
There is always lots of spontaneous dancing at Kazakh events. After a speech, music would come on and everyone would hold hands and dance in circles, often around the tree.
The lion-like thing in the red outfit by the tree was by far the most frightening costume I saw.
The mayor giving a speech to batman, jesters, and an assortment of animals.
There were a wide range of dances and performances. All were good. I got tons of video, but I'll have to convert them before sharing.
What is New Years without the New Years Chicken!
This girl has a dress made of playing cards. She is standing next to a donkey.
The teachers and dancers of school #2- flanked by the New Years mouse.
When the celebration was over, the mayor posed with groups of children.
Us with a jester and slave (PS- the "slave" in this picture is the same person Gambrill "married" last year in the Nauryz ceremony. She can pick them good! Ha)
