How To Become A Professional Aerial Artist
“Professional Aerialist.” You might hear this phrase often in the pole/aerial/dance and circus world. But what does it really mean to be a ‘professional aerialist’ and more importantly…how do you get there? Becoming a professional aerial or circus artist requires an enormous amount of dedication, hard work, education and talent. Here are some steps and tips that you might find helpful as you pursue a career as a professional aerialist:
1. START TRAINING EARLY
Many aerial and circus artists start training at a young age, often beginning with gymnastics or dance. It's important to develop a strong foundation of physical strength, flexibility, and coordination early on. Even if you don’t start early…it’s never too late! I didn’t start aerial training until the ripe age of 22.
2. FIND A CIRCUS SCHOOL OR AERIAL MENTOR
Look for a reputable circus school where you can receive formal training. These schools offer programs that cover a range of circus disciplines, including acrobatics, aerial arts, clowning and more. You can also look to some online studies, which is becoming more widely available for aerial artists. I have an online studio, that’s filled with tutorials, lessons and inspirational training videos from my library called the Sling Flow Salon Archives.
3. ATTEND WORKSHOPS OR MASTERCLASSES
Attend workshops and master classes to learn from experienced aerial and circus professionals. This will give you exposure to different techniques and styles, and help you develop your skills further.
4. JOIN A CIRCUS OR PRODUCTION COMPANY
Once you have developed your skills, start looking for opportunities to perform. Joining a circus company can provide you with valuable performance experience and allow you to develop your own unique style. You may have to audition, which will give you a competitive edge and also push you to carve out your performance skills and also your professionalism as an artist.
5. BUILD A PROFESSIONAL NETWORK
Networking is important in any industry, and the aerial/pole/circus world is no exception. Attend industry events, connect with other performers and professionals, and build relationships that can help you find new opportunities.
6. STAY IN SHAPE (DUH!)
As a circus artist, your body is your instrument. It's important to maintain a healthy lifestyle and stay in good physical shape through regular exercise, a healthy diet and rest. I have found it to be helpful to crosstrain with different sports such as yoga and weightlifting to avoid over-use injuries and to help prevent/correct muscle imbalances from only using “one side” of my body during aerial.
7. EMBRACE YOUR CREATIVITY AND ORGINALITY
Finally…remember that circus is an art form and creativity is key. Embrace your own unique artistic vision and continually work to develop and refine your style. Don’t become a copy and paste of someone else’s work! Find your own path and succeed in it!
Becoming a professional aerial artist is a challenging and rewarding career path. With hard work, dedication and a passion for the art…I truly believe you can achieve your goals and become a successful professional aerial performer if that is your dream!
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