Key aspects of aerial acrobatics in theatre
Aerial acrobatics are a popular element of cabaret and circus shows, bringing impressive skill and flair to the lineup. Using equipment that is often suspended from a rig, aerialists perform spectacular tricks and dynamic dance moves, creating a fluid and breathtaking act that keeps audiences mesmerised. If you’re lucky enough to see a show with aerial elements at a London West End theatre, you’re sure to be inspired. Let’s explore the key requirements for aerial acrobatics in theatre shows.
What is aerial acrobatics?
Aerial acrobatics refers to any acrobatic sequence that is performed using apparatus that is typically suspended from a rig. However, some equipment such as the poles used for pole dance or Chinese pole are also attached to the stage. Aerial arts include aerial silks, aerial hammock, aerial hoop (lyra), pole dance, Chinese pole, flying pole, trapeze, rope (corde lisse), hair hang and tightrope walking.
Aspects of aerial acrobatics
Aerial acrobatics requires performers to develop a range of skills and abilities. These must be finely honed, enabling them to create fluid routines that make their art look easy. The physical aspects that are needed for aerial acrobatics include:
1. Strength: Aerial acrobatics demands a high level of strength. This enables performers to hold their bodies in different positions, control their movements and execute each trick with precision.
2. Flexibility: Aerialists must be flexible enough to make elegant shapes while using their apparatus. They must also be able to transition from one pose to another with grace and confidence.
3. Balance and proprioception: Aerial acrobatics requires the development of balance and proprioception - i.e. knowing where your limbs are in space. This enables artists to maintain stability throughout a routine and perform complex sequences with control and poise.
4. Climbs, wraps and drops: For many aerial arts, the performer must be able to climb their apparatus and descend from it fluidly and safely. Climbs and drops are often a key part of routines, particularly in pole, silks and rope disciplines. Aerial hammock, silks and rope require the wrapping of the material around the performer too, which helps them to hold positions.
Artistic expression and theatrical integration are also a key part of aerial acrobatics in theatre. The performance often has to relate to the overall story of the production, as well as being visually captivating. For this, aerialists require:
1. Musicality: Aerial acrobatics is about more than just technical skill. To complement a theatre production, performers must be able to convey emotion, tell a story and create a deeper connection with the music and the narrative of the show.
2. Dance: There is often an element of dance involved in the aerial arts. Performers create choreographies that help them to tell a story, adding dance elements to tricks in order to captivate and engage the audience.
When you book London West End theatre tickets, you expect aerial performances to be slick and confident - but they should also be supported by technical precision. As such, the final aspect of aerial acrobatics in theatre is the combination of music, lighting and set design, all of which help to create an immersive and cohesive experience.
Aerial acrobatics in Sabrage
The aerial trapeze performance by Kimberley Bargenquast and Flynn Miller is a sensational part of the Sabrage show at Lafayette, King’s Cross. The duo stuns audiences with their erotic dance and daring aerial feats, making their routine a highlight of the production. Book your London West End show tickets today with KX Tickets to see the pair in action.
