Circus Impressions From Kiev

A juggler performs during "Circus of our childhood," a new program, at the National Circus in the Ukrainian capital of Kiev, Jan. 22, 2015.
While conflict rages on in the Ukraine's eastern Donbass region, children in Kiev line up to enjoy an old-fashioned form of escapism: the circus.
Clowns, tigers, and even coatis showed their tricks during a performance of "Circus of our childhood," a new program at the National Circus in Kiev.
See our previous Photo Gallery:
McDonald's Celebrates 25 Years in Russia
While conflict rages on in the Ukraine's eastern Donbass region, children in Kiev line up to enjoy an old-fashioned form of escapism: the circus.
Clowns, tigers, and even coatis showed their tricks during a performance of "Circus of our childhood," a new program at the National Circus in Kiev.
See our previous Photo Gallery:
McDonald's Celebrates 25 Years in Russia
Gleb Garanich / Reuters

Tigers and their trainer perform during "Circus of our childhood."
Gleb Garanich / Reuters

An acrobat swings on the trapeze.
Gleb Garanich / Reuters

Gleb Garanich / Reuters

Raccoon-like coatis are coached to jump through rings.
Gleb Garanich / Reuters

A tiger and its trainer "kiss" as onlookers hold their breath.
Gleb Garanich / Reuters

A staff member is on standby during the program, to control the tiger with a high-pressure water hose in case of an emergency.
Gleb Garanich / Reuters

A lion and its trainer perform during "Circus of our childhood."
Gleb Garanich / Reuters