How to Be Circus Contortionist - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Apr 9, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Circus contortionists are performers who can put their bodies into extraordinary and seemingly impossible shapes. This type of performance is achieved through the practice of contortionism, which requires a great amount of physical strength, flexibility and dedication. Contortionists have to increase their flexibility over time, and this is done through stretching and training.

Through intense stretching and practice, contortionists can extend their range of motion, allowing them to perform feats such as folding their bodies into small boxes or bending themselves backwards in half. This demands extreme focus and concentration, as well as a commitment to pushing the body's limits. The effect of this is that contortionists are able to carry out acts that amaze and entertain audiences in the circus.

Steps How to Become

Learn basic stretches and flexibility exercises. Start by learning basic stretches and flexibility exercises like toe and heel touches, stomach stretching poses, back bends, and shoulder and chest stretches. Doing these exercises regularly will help you develop the flexibility and strength needed to become a contortionist.
Sign up for contortion classes. Sign up for contortion classes or find a local coach to help you learn proper technique. Contortion classes will help you learn how to safely stretch and bend your body into different poses.
Practice contortion exercises daily. Practicing contortion exercises daily is essential to becoming a successful contortionist. Spend at least 30 minutes a day focusing on stretching and bending your body into different poses.
Take dance classes. Taking dance classes will help you gain the coordination and balance needed to perform contortion tricks.
Work on a routine. Work on a routine that combines all the contortion poses and tricks you have learned. Practice it until you can perform it with ease.
Perform your routine. Perform your routine in front of an audience to gain experience and confidence. Start with small audiences, such as family and friends, and gradually move up to larger audiences at local events or festivals.

Circus contortionists are performers who can bend and twist their bodies into seemingly impossible positions. Becoming a reliable and qualified contortionist requires mastering a range of physical techniques, such as strength training and flexibility exercises, as well as honing the necessary performance skills. A contortionist must devote significant time and effort to perfecting the art of body manipulation, developing the skills to bend and twist their body in extreme ways while maintaining poise and balance.

they need to be aware of their own body mechanics, as well as the limits of their movement, in order to ensure safety for themselves and others. The combination of physical and performance skills, as well as an appreciation for the risks involved, is what makes a reliable and qualified contortionist.

You may want to check Circus Makeup Artist, Circus Tent Maintenance Worker, and Circus Lighting Technician for alternative.

Job Description

Setup and Take Down Equipment: Circus contortionists are responsible for setting up and taking down any necessary equipment for their performances. This could include rigging, props, mats, and other items used for their act.
Perform Contortionist Acts: The primary job of the contortionist is to perform contortionist acts. This could include bending and twisting their body into unusual positions, balancing on various objects, and performing other feats of flexibility.
Practice Routines: Circus contortionists must regularly practice their routines in order to maintain a high level of performance. This could include stretching exercises as well as performing their acts multiple times to ensure they are ready for their show.
Maintain Flexibility: Circus contortionists must continually work on maintaining a high level of flexibility in order to perform the intricate poses and positions required of them. This could include a regular stretching and exercise routine.
Interact with Audience: Circus contortionists may be asked to interact with the audience during their performances. This could include explaining how they are able to perform certain poses or answering questions about their acts.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Flexibility
Strength
Balance
Dexterity
Endurance
Spatial Awareness
Body Coordination
Concentration
Control
Creativity
Fearlessness
Self-assurance
Artistic Expression

Being a successful contortionist requires a great deal of strength, flexibility, and dedication. To develop these skills, a contortionist must practice their routines regularly and maintain a healthy diet. Strength training is important for building the muscles necessary to perform demanding physical feats.

A contortionist must also have a large range of motion, so stretching and yoga are essential for maintaining flexibility. Finally, dedication is essential to mastering the complex positions, memorizing choreography, and doing all of this in a safe and entertaining way. With these three components in place, a contortionist can develop the skills necessary to become a successful performer.

Circus Juggler, Circus Stilt Walker, and Circus Illusionist are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What inspired you to pursue a career in contortionism?
What challenges have you faced while performing contortionism?
Are there any tricks or stunts that you have yet to master in contortionism?
What safety precautions do you take while performing contortionism?
How do you stay motivated and continue to push yourself during performances?
What techniques do you use to maintain flexibility and range of motion?
How would you rate your ability to perform under pressure?
What do you believe sets you apart from other contortionists?
How have you adapted your performances for different audiences?
How do you handle difficult or unexpected situations while performing contortionism?

Common Tools in Industry

Contortion Poles. Support poles used to help contortionists maintain their poses. (eg: allowing a contortionist to twirl around while in a suspended split)
Contortion Mats. Mats used to provide cushion and protection while bending in extreme poses. (eg: providing a layer of protection while a contortionist performs a back-bend)
Elastic Bands. Bands used to help increase flexibility and range of motion. (eg: aiding a contortionist in stretching their legs further apart)
Handstand Blocks. Blocks used to aid in handstands and other balancing poses. (eg: helping a contortionist maintain balance in a one-handed handstand)
Foam Rollers. Rollers used to help warm up muscles and improve flexibility. (eg: rolling the legs before attempting a backbend to help improve range of motion)

Professional Organizations to Know

International Federation of Actors (FIA)
International Federation of Musicians (FIM)
International Association of Acrobats and Artists (IAA)
Association of Circus Performers (ACP)
Contortionists International Network (CIN)
The Flying Trapeze Artists of America (FTAA)
International Jugglers Association (IJA)
International Brotherhood of Magicians (IBM)
Circus Fans Association of America (CFAA)
World Clown Association (WCA)

We also have Circus Animal Trainer, Circus Aerialist, and Circus Artist Liaison jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Contortion. A form of physical performance in which the performer bends and twists their body into extreme positions.
Flexibility. The ability of a muscle or joint to move through its full range of motion.
Acrobatics. A form of physical performance that combines tumbling and gymnastics skills.
Aerial. Any performance done in the air, such as trapeze, lyra, or silks.
Hand Balancing. A form of physical performance in which the performer balances their body on their hands.
Static Trapeze. A form of physical performance in which the performer performs poses and transitions on a bar suspended from the ceiling.
Lyra. A form of physical performance in which the performer hangs from an aerial hoop and performs poses and transitions.
Silks. A form of physical performance in which the performer hangs from two pieces of fabric and performs poses and transitions.
Juggling. A form of physical performance in which the performer manipulates multiple objects such as balls, rings, clubs, and knives.
Clowning. A form of physical performance in which the performer uses humor and slapstick to entertain an audience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of flexibility is required to become a Circus Contortionist?

Circus contortionists require extreme flexibility in order to perform their stunts. This includes an ability to bend and twist their body into unusual positions, such as being able to fold themselves into a small box or curl their body into a ball.

What type of training is required to become a Circus Contortionist?

To become a circus contortionist, rigorous training is required to develop the necessary strength and flexibility. This often involves stretching and conditioning exercises as well as an understanding of proper body mechanics.

How long does it typically take to become a Circus Contortionist?

Becoming a circus contortionist is a long process, requiring several years of practice and dedication. It may take anywhere from two to five years or more to master the necessary skills and stunts.

What are some of the risks associated with being a Circus Contortionist?

Being a circus contortionist can be dangerous, as there is a risk of injury from overextending the body or performing stunts incorrectly. In addition, there is also the risk of developing chronic back, neck, or knee injuries due to the strain placed on the body during performances.

How much does a Circus Contortionist typically earn?

The salary of a circus contortionist varies depending on experience and the specific performance venue. Generally, contortionists earn anywhere from $50 to $300 per performance, with experienced performers earning more.