I still remember the first time I walked into Circus Arts Workshop. The tall, colorful silks hanging from the ceiling seemed like an impossible challenge to me. As I watched the other students twist and soar through the air, I couldn’t help but wonder, “Could I ever do that?”
For as long as I could remember, I had been fascinated by aerial silks. The grace, strength, and beauty of the performers floating effortlessly above the ground always amazed me. But it was one of those things that I always thought was “for someone else.” Someone younger, someone more athletic, someone braver. But after years of watching from the sidelines, I finally decided to take the leap and sign up for my first class at Circus Arts Workshop.
The Beginning: Overcoming the Fear
As a complete beginner, I had no idea what to expect. I had never done anything like this before, and the thought of dangling from fabric hundreds of feet in the air was a bit daunting. But from the moment I walked into the workshop, I felt nothing but encouragement. The instructors were so welcoming, and the other students were kind and supportive, making me feel at ease. It was clear that Circus Arts Workshop wasn’t just about learning tricks—it was about building confidence, pushing boundaries, and growing together.
The first few classes were tough. My arms and core muscles were sore in ways I never knew possible, and I remember feeling frustrated when I couldn’t quite get the hang of certain moves. But with each class, I started to see progress. I began to understand the importance of strength and technique, and I gained a deeper appreciation for the artistry behind aerial silks.
The Middle: Building Strength and Technique
After a few months, I could already feel the transformation. I was stronger—both physically and mentally—and my confidence grew with each new skill I learned. I started mastering basic climbs, foot locks, and even some beginner drops. My body became more attuned to the silks, and I learned how to trust myself and the fabric.
One of the biggest challenges I faced was learning how to properly execute aerial sequences. It’s not just about getting from point A to point B; it’s about making the entire movement fluid, controlled, and graceful. It was like learning an entirely new language with my body. Every time I perfected a sequence, I felt this incredible sense of accomplishment.
The instructors at Circus Arts Workshop were always there to offer constructive feedback, helping me refine my technique and pushing me to challenge myself. They were incredibly patient with my progress, and I learned that the journey wasn’t about perfection, but about enjoying the process and embracing the challenge.
The Performance: From Practice to Stage
Fast forward to a year later. I found myself signing up for the workshop’s annual performance showcase. The idea of performing in front of an audience had always seemed intimidating, but I realized it was the perfect way to push myself further.
Rehearsing for the performance was a thrilling and nerve-wracking experience. I spent hours perfecting my routine, incorporating everything I had learned: the climbs, the drops, and the beautiful fluidity of aerial silks. The nerves I felt before stepping onto the stage were overwhelming, but as soon as I started my routine, I felt a rush of excitement and joy. I could hear the applause, feel the support of my fellow students, and experience the magic of what I had accomplished.
That night, I realized how far I had come—from that shy, hesitant beginner to a confident performer. It was one of the most rewarding moments of my life, and I knew I had Circus Arts Workshop to thank for making it all possible.
Reflecting on the Journey
Looking back on my journey from beginner to performer, I can’t help but feel incredibly proud of how far I’ve come. Aerial silks have not only transformed my body but also my mindset. I’ve learned to trust my strength, embrace challenges, and never give up. It’s been a journey of self-discovery and growth, and every step has been worth it.
If you’re considering starting aerial silks or any circus art, I can’t recommend Circus Arts Workshop enough. It’s not just a place to learn new skills; it’s a community that helps you grow, supports you through the tough times, and celebrates your successes.
My journey is far from over, and I can’t wait to see where aerial silks will take me next. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to push yourself to the next level, I promise you this: the journey is worth it. You’ll surprise yourself with what you can accomplish—and when you finally get to perform, it will be an experience you’ll never forget.