Flying Like A Eagle On An Aerial Silk

By Sherry Gross


Performance artists of all type use flight and streaming materials to perform aerial silk. When creating or selecting these fabrics for a routine, it is important to select those which are both lightweight and heavy duty. Dress rehearsals are essential before a performance to assure that all ties remain tied and that all other equipment, performers and audience members will be safe during the production.

Acrobats, dancers and performance artists entertain audiences with a variety of movement routines and skills. While the trapeze allowed for great entertainment, aerial artists and audiences alike have now become intrigued with the flexibility of movement allowed by different types of colorful fabric.

As an added layer of protection from slippage, performers often use dry spray powder or resin to increase hold between performer and equipment. Equipment can refer to ribbons, silk, ties or other objects on, or from where one flies through air. While most artists use gloves, it is important to assure that there is a strong grip between glove and equipment either with or without the use of spray powder or resin.

As performers are often required to climb these fabrics without any safety lines or nets, it is also advised that each individual performing these type stunts carry personal liability insurance. As the aerial fabrics are used to swing, spiral, fall and suspend oneself in mid-air, it is generally a necessity. Most performance venues are going to require any production to carry at the least, liability insurance in case of accident or injury to cast, crew or audience.

For those simply wanting to dance or play with aerial scarves and other equipment, creating a home sky gym is one way to go. Each gym has different hooks on walls and ceilings from which different flying equipment can be installed. It is important to assure the ceiling and walls have the strength to hold the equipment and any individuals who plan on using same.

When planning on sharing any flight fabrics or equipment, it may be good to get individuals to sign a release or to obtain insurance which covers all members of the exercise group. So, while a home sky gym can be fun, it can also be dangerous and expensive. Individuals living in areas in which no homeowners is required or carried on a home may definitely want to check on obtaining the minimum amount of liability coverage when installing a home sky gym.

It is imperative to know, understand and use any guidelines with regards to height and weight on various flight equipment when used in the home. This is especially true when allowing others to use a home gym whether having solely fabric oriented or advanced equipment. If not, were an accident to occur, the homeowner could face court costs and legal issues.

While there is a level of risk with any aerial art form or routine, those flying on ribbons, scarves and ties tend to gain a great deal of excitement from doing so. This is because often the fabric appears as wings and carries the individual high above an auditorium or studio. Those still performing and having performed these skills in the past often say that flying on fabric is as close to flying with wings as one is going to get.




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