He's got a little mud-man mask in his hands.
These are a few of the members of the Snake Sing Sing group relaxing. They are one of the more visually appealing groups, walking in a serpentine manner with a "snake" on their heads.
These Asaro Mud Men were relaxing late in the day during the Goroka Show in Goroka, Papua New Guinea. The cultural festival, held each year, is attended by many tribal groups who perform through much of the day. The Mud Men’s war costumes are meant to look frightening to their enemies, and at the festival their dance was a threatening advance as if they were in battle. In reality, the Asaro tribesmen are very friendly and I spent quite a while talking to them about daily life in Papua New Guinea.
The festival is much like a county fair in the United States, and geared mainly to the local population rather than the hundred or so tourists. In addition to the cultural show, there were booths set up by local companies and charities, food stands, live music and other entertainment (including boxing matches and a bodybuilding contest).
Two dancers from an all female troupe.
Member of a dance troupe.
These three were from one of my favorite dance groups. Lots of energy!
The mask and mud are supposed to scare away opponents during a battle. This tribe is very close to Goroka, so there were many mud men at the show.
Anselmo Lastra has been a member since 4 December 2007 and goes by lastra.
Currently in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA.
I am a university professor and avid traveler.