My main purpose for my Senior Project was to learn how to perform on the Aerial Silks (also called the tissu or fabric). In reality, I learned so much more about the world of aerial acrobatics than my narrow definition. I expected the rope burn and sore muscles, but I was not expecting the mental tests of the project. I am happy to say that I have been able to overcome many of them, from strength and confidence issues to fear of heights. Not only did I learn 26 different moves on the silks, but I also learned 22 different moves on the corde lisse (rope), 46 different moves on the static trapeze (non-moving trapeze), and 6 on the hoop. I am very proud of my accomplishments both physically and mentally.
Because of my unusual choice in Senior Project experience, I feel as though a whole new world of opportunity has been given to me. I used to think the aerial performing arts were available only to those performers who began at professional acrobatic gyms at young ages, all destined to perform in Cirque du Soleil. Through my time at the Philadelphia School of Circus Arts, I have met many talented performers who have started later in life, but are in performing troupes and who have tried out for the Cirque.
Learning how to perform on various aerial apparatuses like the static trapeze, hoop, corde lisse, and fabric, are definitely not something that the average person would be able to find in a gym class, or a fitness gym for that matter. I used to think there was a wide divide, between the clowns and tight rope walkers of the average Barnum & Bailey’s Circus and the graceful aerial acrobats of the Cirque du Soleil. However, the accessibility of something I previously considered so out of the ordinary, has really changed my perspective on those performers, from untouchables to average people simply doing what they love, just like me. Although I do not see this as a future career path for me, I do see it as a fun way to get and stay in shape as well as to experience the euphoric adrenaline rush of performing.
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You are quite lucky to live in a city that has a circus arts school. You were able to live out a lifelong question of what it would be like to be a Cirque du Soliel performer. Will you be seeking out such a school when you are off to college? Or is there perhaps another challenge that you want to put yourself through? Skydiving? Scuba diving? Or is it as simple as learning to speak a fourth language?-- {>, Mom
ReplyDeleteI will be seeking one out. However, the only gym I was able to find, the New Orleans Circus School recently closed. I may seek scuba diving or simply trying to perfect my spanish. Maybe later on I will try to pick up French or Italian.
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed seeing this..especially the videos! I am impressed. I am hoping to see you live.
ReplyDeleteI hope there's a net under you when you do this! I watched the video and think this is VERY COOL...as long as it's someone OTHER THAN ME doing it! What a great idea for a project...You must feel a wonderful sense of accomplishment. Well done, Rachel! -- DD
ReplyDeletethis was very good. I think that you just need to make sure your toes are always pointed and your legs always straight but otherwise it was great!
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