Impressive street performer won't let his physical challenge slow him down

Playa Del Carmen, Mexico is a city full of interesting sights and things to do. It is one of the most active tourist destinations in the Yucatan Peninsula. Known for its pedestrian thoroughfare, it allows visitors access to shops, restaurants, nightclubs and various forms of entertainment. And along this thoroughfare are dozens of street performers who display their talents in the hope of a little financial compensation.Show more

Among these performers was a pair of very athletic dancers who had placed a few small cones on the sidewalk to mark off an area where they were dancing to a remake of "September", a classic hit by Earth, Wind and Fire.

Something immediately obvious about the first performer is that he is shorter in stature and has some sort of difference with his legs. But within seconds, it is also obvious that he has serious dance moves and that he is agile on his feet. He performs a quick spin on his palms and then back onto his feet, as if warming up for his next moves. The tempo picks up and he flips upside down in a handstand that suddenly becomes one handed. In time with the music, he spins and bounces on one hand while kicking his legs and swinging his other hand to dance upside down. Someone in the crowd shouts encouragement, impressed with his balance and strength.

Without a pause, the performer then tops this off with a few more rapid spins and moves that take him from his feet to his hands and even his elbows, all in perfect time with the music. With a shy smile, he ends his routine and glances at the audience and seems to see that he is being recorded. You can tell by the grin that he knows he has pulled off a very impressive series of moves and he nods and waves in acceptance of a little cheering.

His partner enters the circle now and he also performs some fancy footwork. As fit as he looks, he is covered in sweat and it's clear that this sort of exertion in June is no easy task. He also performs some interesting and athletic moves on his feet and his hands. This has given his partner a chance to catch his breath and he is back in the spotlight with some very energetic spinning on his hands that seems like a combination of gymnastics and break dancing. His routine requires strength and balance that must have taken many hours of training.
Both of these men worked extremely hard to provide the crowd with some entertainment.

As with most street artists, there is a small cup and a polite sign that suggests they would appreciate a tip for their work. A small crowd had gathered behind the camera and spectators could be heard gasping in disbelief. There were a few quiet comments and a small round of applause that followed this act, but surprisingly, the tip jar didn't see much action. These performers are working to pay bills and put food on their table. If you stop to watch, or if you take pictures or video, etiquette suggests that you do owe them a little tangible show of appreciation. And if you think they are good enough to post on social media or YouTube, the tip should probably be something that can be folded.

These performers deserve some praise for their routine, especially the one who hasn't let a physical challenge get in his way. He has moves that absolutely anyone would be proud of.