The sun pierced through my window early this morning, warming the room. I anxiously peeked outside and let out a sigh of relief. Whew! No wind! If you are familiar with the notorious Ellensburg wind, you will understand my concern. Few of us even dare say the “w” word around here for fear of jinxing the weather. Hints of gold and orange painted the tree tops. Ellensburg could not have asked for a more beautiful day for the annual Buskers in the Burg Festival. Anticipation for the festival was especially high because of last year’s cancellation due to the pandemic.
The Buskers in the Burg festival has been a local tradition every Fall in Ellensburg since 2012. Of all the festivals I perform at, this is one of my favorites for several reasons. First, this was the very first festival I ever was hired to hoop at. I was still relatively new to hooping and had very little experience performing in front of others. The festival gave me a chance to practice my skills in front of passersby without the intimidation of giant crowds or stages. Secondly, this festival does a wonderful job of bringing the community together for a festive, family-friendly, Fall event. Placed in the heart of beautiful, historic downtown Ellensburg, amidst the bustling farmer’s market, what’s not to love? Lastly, I am incredibly proud to live in a town that celebrates street performers. I am a passionate busker advocate. It has become common for buskers to lose their right to perform due to increased regulations in an attempt to control public space. I am happy Ellensburg has embraced buskers and the benefits they bring to communities and local businesses.
There was something extra special about the atmosphere at this year’s Buskers in the Burg festival. Perhaps it was the pent-up energy from the lockdown or the fantastic weather. Either way, the turnout was fantastic. Everywhere I looked I could see smiling faces of all ages. Small crowds formed around the street corners to watch and listen to see what each busker had to offer. Children played with sidewalk chalk and had fun marveling at the giant handmade puppets (by Blue Bear Puppet Lab) as they meandered through the streets.
This year I tested out some new comedy material mixed in with my classic hula hoop street show. Performing new material is always a little nerve wracking because you never know how the audience will react. As soon as shrieks of laughter filled the air, I was filled with a deep sense of relief. My favorite moment was when I brought up two unsuspecting men from the audience and taught them three of my sassiest hoop dance moves to perform as my backup dancers. I still can’t decide if their dance moves or the audience laughter was funnier. Everyone was having a great time, which is always my goal as an entertainer.
I shared the space with other acclaimed performers including Kama, also a local hula hoop artist. Kama never fails to amaze with crazy impressive hoop tricks and unique touches of contemporary dance movements. She was a festival favorite this year for sure! Local band A Subtle Riot featuring the rich vocals of Noel Walsh, also took the streets by storm, performing original folk rock songs that were a big hit with the crowds. There were many more noteworthy performers I had the pleasure of watching in between my show times that I don’t have time to mention here. If you enjoy cozy, historic small towns and Fall festivals, Ellensburg’s Buskers in the Burg is one festival you definitely don’t want to miss!
You’re making me tear up! This is really beautifully written and well done!! Thanks for the kind words about my act! I feel the same about yours! You took it to a new level this year, Hillia!!
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You’re making me tear up! This is really beautifully written and well done!! Thanks for the kind words about my act! I feel the same about yours! You took it to a new level this year, Hillia!!