The Power of Performance: Why Aerialists Should Soar into the Spotlight!

Alright, my friends—let’s talk about something super important that sometimes gets overlooked in the rush to perfect that next trick and rehearse your routine. It’s the one thing that truly brings your artistry to life and lets you soar: performing!

The other day I was teaching a wrap and had a far off memory of an act I did EIGHT years ago. Did I even do the same wrap in my act? Absolutely not, but It was similar enough that it brought back memories of when I debuted my act and the audience reaction and it felt so good to go back there in my mind that I rushed to find the video and see if my body even remembered how to do the thing (it did, believe it or not). 

Whether you're in a studio showcase, recital, or even just a local performance, taking the stage is more than just a way to show off your skills. It’s a chance to take the thrill of aerial dance to a whole new dimension and grow in ways that only the spotlight can offer. So, if you’ve been sitting on the fence about performing, here are some irresistible reasons why you should take the plunge and sign up for that next student showcase or recital. Trust me—your aerial journey will thank you for it!

1. It’s All About the Energy!

We all know the adrenaline rush of finding that perfect spin or executing a flawless combo in the studio, but nothing compares to the energy of performing for an audience. The moment you reach up for that apparatus, there’s this electricity that you just can’t recreate in practice. The lights, the music, the audience—it’s a whole different kind of high (get it?)! And guess what? The audience feeds off your energy, and you can totally feed off theirs, creating a dynamic exchange that makes you feel unstoppable.

2. You’re Telling a Story, Not Just Executing Moves

Performing isn’t just about perfecting every split, twist, or drop (though, let’s be real, we all love doing that). It’s about telling a story with your body—sometimes dozens of feet in the air! When you perform, you’re not just showcasing your technical skill; you’re sharing an emotional experience with the audience. That’s where the magic happens. When you connect with the crowd, you can take them on a journey, and that’s what makes you memorable as an aerialist. Plus, it’s way more fun than just looking at studio videos of yourself.

3. Boost Your Confidence Like Never Before

Let’s face it—performing in front of others can be nerve-wracking. But here’s the deal: the more you perform, the more confident you become! Each time you step on stage and fly through the air, you might feel the flutter of butterflies, but you’ll also feel the rush of pushing through it. Over time, you’ll grow more comfortable with being vulnerable and imperfect in front of others. And that confidence? It doesn’t just stay on stage—it follows you back into your regular practice sessions, and even into your day-to-day life.

4. Performance Builds Team Spirit and Connection

Aerial performances often require trust and collaboration, and there’s no better way to experience that bond than through a duo, trio, or group performance. When you work together with other aerialists to create a stunning routine, there’s a unique sense of camaraderie that forms. You all rely on each other, support one another, and create something greater than the sum of its parts. Plus, there’s no better feeling than having a fellow aerialist by your side, knowing you’ve both worked hard for this moment. It’s the ultimate team-building experience.

5. It Sharpens Your Focus and Discipline

Let’s be real: rehearsals can sometimes feel like an endless cycle of reducing unnecessary re-grips, trying to nail a wrap, or memorizing the skills in a routine. But when you know you’re gearing up for a performance, it sharpens your focus. You’re not just preparing to get through the tricks; you’re preparing to deliver them to an audience who’s going to notice your every move. Performance rehearsals help you refine your skills, focus on the details, and push yourself to new heights of artistry. The added pressure? It’ll only make you stronger.

6. Performance Builds Opportunities—For Growth and Exposure!

The beauty of performance opportunities—especially in studio showcases and recitals—is that they’re often plentiful and right at your fingertips. You don’t have to wait for a big competition or international tour to hit the stage. These local events can be an excellent way to practice your aerial skills and get comfortable with performing or even choreographing on your own, without the high stakes of a large-scale show. Plus, they’re great for building a community within your studio, where everyone supports one another.

7. Celebrate Your Progress!

There’s no better way to celebrate how far you’ve come as an aerialist than by performing. Remember all those long hours spent mastering that one trick, or perfecting your routine? When you perform, you get to step back and look at everything you’ve accomplished. And guess what? The audience will see your progress, too. Nothing feels quite as satisfying as stepping off stage knowing you gave it your all, and hearing the applause that reflects the journey you've been on.

So, What Are You Waiting For?

Performing can be an essential part of an aerialist's growth, and the benefits far outweigh the nervous jitters. The next time you hear about a studio showcase or recital, take a deep breath and sign up! You’ll gain confidence, develop stage presence, and most importantly—have fun while doing it.

The stage is waiting for you, and trust me, it’s where you belong. So go ahead—take the leap and embrace the thrill of performance. Your aerial journey will never be the same!

And hey, even if you’re nervous, you’ve got this. The audience is rooting for you every step of the way. ✨🪶🎉