Fake

[whipchick]

We walk into the gym and scan for mat space, Kim’s aerial hoop over her shoulder, my aerial silk in my arms.

Aerialists hang from the peg wall, doing pike-ups and hoping the Cirque coaches will notice them. Big-bodied catchers wear tank tops and striped toe-socks. Short, muscled flyers with linebacker shoulders and gnarled ankles look at us,

Comments

[penpusher]

A really great and telling look at the process. And of course that's right, there are people with skills who will never perform and people who just know what to do that are booking work. Sometimes it's really more about knowing how to fake it!

[whipchick]

Ever since, I've characterized myself as an entertainer, rather than as an aerialist, and it's really worked for me!

[solstice_singer]

I thought yoga was hard. Reading this makes what I do look super easy. I can't imagine getting my body to do some of those things.

[whipchick]

Seriously! I watch it up close and do the initial stages, and it still looks insane!

[frecklestars]

Non-circus comment: this whole thing resonated with me so hard. It's the reason I quit: knowing that everyone would always be better than me. But I'm glad to know that even you (who I think of as one of my circus idols) feel like you're a fake. Even though you are clearly not. :p <3

Circus comment: holy shit that child has incredible control! *after watching the video*

[whipchick]

Yeah, it can be so daunting. And I'm sorry to hear you stopped! But hey, if it calls you, you can always go back.

I found myself really motivated to make a new routine earlier this year. Started learning new moves, commissioned music, the whole deal. Then after about two weeks of working every day I realized I'd rather have the time for writing :)

The Pixies are incredible - they're in Kooza now. I always wonder about the tradeoff in gymnastics, ice skating and contortion - is it worth trading your childhood to be incredible at a skill? (I think yes, but I don't know if very many people would agree).

[similiesslip]

It's a big part of growing up, realizing you are "not the best." What you do after can really shape your life

[whipchick]

Thanks - it's been a good journey for me to discover that my strengths are more in managing, scripting, and verbal performing, and I can do a bit of physical circus and hire people to do the rest :)

I hope your sister finds what she needs - you're a great example for her.

[witchwife]

Oh, I'm glad you put that note in at the end! Kept wondering how you had such an intimate knowledge of such an interesting topic. Very well written.

[whipchick]

Thanks! Yeah, I've spent the past ten years bossing a small aerial company - we do mostly festivals and corporate events. (www.angelsintheair.com) I'm making the change to write full-time this year, but I do love performing.