The Janbaaz Circus is in Islamabad as part of a summer festival. The circus, once considered a dying art, was essentially reincarnated five years ago and has been thriving since. Here a stilt walker practices before a show on July 20.
A lion tamer from the Janbaaz troupe wrestles with the jaws of the king of the jungle as the crowd watches.
Acrobats stand high above the crowd on platforms during an evening performance. The Janbaaz Circus, which has over 60 performers, boasts a number of traditional acts including tight-rope walkers, jugglers, and a "well of death."
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Pakistan families gaze up at circus performers on the trapeze.
A handler sits on the ground outside with his show horse prior to going into the tent to perform.
One of the circus's younger performers looks on from the shadows of the tent while she waits for her act on July 21.
Ayeesha, a gymnast prepares for her performance. In its revival, the more modern version of the Pakistani circus is said to feature gravity-defying feats of balance.
A performer rides his motorcycle around inside a gigantic steel cage while his trusting assistant stands still in the center.
Circus hands assist an act backstage on July 21.
"The Strong Man" of the Janbaaz Circus exits the main ring after a show on July 21.
The Janbaaz gymnasts conduct their act center stage as spectators look on.
One of the clowns plays with a show dog backstage. While the Janbaaz Circus hosts a variety of different animals -- including elephants and sea lions -- most of the animals headlining the acts are domestic.
Ayeesha (left) and Farwar (right) are both gymnasts. Here, they are putting on make-up in their tent before a show on July 23.
A circus hand pauses between acts on July 21.
One of the clowns rests in the grass outside the big top between performances.
Performers from the Janbaaz Circus troupe attempt to lure customers to their show.
