How to Be Aerial Performer - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jun 27, 2023 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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Aerial performers require a combination of strength, skill, and coordination in order to successfully perform an aerial act. These performers must have the physical strength to lift and maneuver their bodies in the air, as well as the agility to maintain balance and control. Furthermore, they must have a keen understanding of the techniques and safety protocols that must be followed while performing in the air.

Without these key elements, an aerial performer could suffer serious injuries or even death. Therefore, it is essential that aerial performers have the proper training and preparation before attempting any aerial stunts. With the right instruction and practice, aerial performers can safely and confidently perform their acts and entertain their audiences.

Steps How to Become

Take classes in aerial performance. Taking classes in aerial performance is the first step in becoming an aerial performer. Look for a school, circus, or other institution that offers classes in aerial performance. Make sure the classes are taught by experienced instructors and offer a variety of aerial disciplines.
Practice. After taking classes, start practicing at home. Invest in some basic equipment such as an aerial hoop, trapeze, silk fabric, or rope. You may also want to invest in a crash mat to provide extra safety when practicing.
Join a troupe. Joining a troupe or performance group is a great way to further hone your skills as an aerial performer. You can learn from experienced performers and collaborate with other performers to create new and exciting routines.
Perform. Now that you have taken classes, practiced at home, and joined a troupe its time to perform! Start small with local shows, fundraisers, and community events. As you gain more experience, you can apply to larger shows and festivals.
Network. Networking is key for becoming an aerial performer. Connect with other performers and promoters on social media and at events to stay up-to-date on the latest performances and opportunities.

Aerial performers are highly skilled and qualified individuals that require a great deal of practice and dedication to master their craft. To become a successful aerial performer, one must first have a strong background in dance and acrobatics, as these are essential skills for aerialists. aerial performers need to have excellent physical strength, flexibility, coordination, and balance.

After mastering the necessary acrobatic skills and physical abilities, aerial performers need to spend time perfecting their performance techniques and learning how to safely perform complex aerial maneuvers. All of these elements come together to form the skillset of an accomplished aerial performer. With the proper training, dedication, and focus, anyone can become an aerial performer and enjoy the thrill of performing high above the ground.

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Job Description

Aerial Acrobat: Performs aerial acrobatics in the air, such as flips, spins, and contortion movements.
Aerial Silks Artist: Dangles from fabric attached to the ceiling, performing a variety of shapes and poses.
Aerial Hoop Artist: Performs a variety of acrobatic moves on a metal hoop suspended from the ceiling.
Aerial Trapeze Artist: Moves between two stationary trapezes suspended from the ceiling, performing flips and other tricks.
Lyra Artist: Uses a metal hoop suspended from the ceiling to perform tricks such as spinning and hanging.
Aerial Rigger: Designs and installs rigging equipment for aerial performances.
Safety Technician: Ensures that aerial performers are safe while performing their routines.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Physical Strength and Endurance
Flexibility and Agility
Balance and Coordination
Acrobatic Skills
Safety Awareness
Creative Expression
Musicality
Performance Artistry
Risk Assessment and Management
Problem Solving
Attention to Detail
Timing and Precision
Teamwork and Collaboration

Having a strong understanding of aerial performance is key to becoming an expert aerialist. This requires a combination of physical and mental strength, practice, and knowledge of the aerial art form. Physical strength is necessary to develop the core and upper body muscles needed to control the apparatus, while mental strength helps an aerialist stay focused and motivated during long practices.

practice is essential to perfecting aerial techniques, as repetition is the only way to learn the complexity of moves and transitions. Finally, knowledge of the aerial art form is critical for a successful performance, as it helps an aerialist understand the basics of each move and transition as well as the safety protocols that need to be followed. When all of these components are put together, an aerialist can become an expert in the field and enjoy a successful career.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have as an aerial performer?
Are you comfortable working at heights?
What is your level of expertise in aerial performance?
Do you have any certifications or qualifications related to safety, rigging, or aerial performance?
What types of aerial performances have you done before?
What is the most difficult aerial performance youve performed?
How do you handle the physical demands of aerial performance?
How do you stay motivated to practice and improve your aerial performance?
How would you handle a situation where an audience member is disruptive during a performance?
What kind of feedback have you received from previous employers regarding your aerial performances?

Common Tools in Industry

Rigging System. A system of ropes, blocks, and pulleys used to support and maneuver aerial performers. (eg: Trapeze rigging system)
Harness. A type of body support used to suspend or support aerial performers in the air. (eg: Aerial silk harness)
Spotting Rig. A system of ropes, blocks, and pulleys used to provide a spotter for aerial performers during their performance. (eg: Static-line spotting rig)
Safety Line. A line used to provide additional security while an aerial performer is working in the air. (eg: Retractable safety line)
Aerial Net. A net used to provide additional safety for aerial performers and to prevent them from falling from great heights. (eg: Trapeze aerial net)
Foam Crash Mats. A type of mat used to cushion the landing of aerial performers who are practicing or performing routines. (eg: High density foam crash mats)
Carabiner. A metal loop used to connect pieces of equipment together. (eg: Double-action locking carabiner)

Professional Organizations to Know

The Association of Aerial Performers (AAP)
The Professional Aerialists Association (PAA)
International Federation of Aerialists (IFAP)
USA Climbing (USAC)
European Aerial Dance Association (EADA)
Professional Rope Skippers Association (PRSA)
International Circus Arts Association (ICAA)
British Academy of Circus Arts (BACA)
International Jugglers' Association (IJA)
Cirque du Soleil Professional Network (CdSPN)

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Common Important Terms

Aerial Rigging. The installation of equipment used to suspend aerial performers in the air.
Trapeze. A swinging apparatus used in aerial performances.
Lyra. An aerial apparatus resembling a metal hoop.
Harness. A type of safety gear worn by aerial performers.
Aerial Silks. Long lengths of fabric that aerial performers use to climb and perform acrobatic stunts.
Static Trapeze. A type of trapeze that is fixed in place, rather than swinging from ropes or chains.
Chinese Pole. A vertical pole used for aerial stunts, usually held in place by a base or ropes.
Spanish Web. An apparatus similar to static trapeze, but with multiple strings of webbing suspended from a bar.
Cloud Swing. A type of aerial apparatus consisting of a large hoop suspended from the ceiling and used for acrobatic stunts.
Web Rope. A length of rope suspended from the ceiling and used for aerial stunts.