Ready to take the stage but not sure where to start? It can be very exciting and overwhelming all at the same time. Performing is a big leap, but it can also be one of the most rewarding experiences of your aerial journey. Here’s how to make the most of the process, from choosing your apparatus to taking a final deep breath before curtain call.
Creating Choreography
1. Pick Your Apparatus
If you have a soul apparatus and that’s all you train, perfect! Step one done. But if you have a love for different apparatuses, then it’s time to make a choice. You probably have one that you’re leaning towards, but if you’re trying to decide between a couple then there’s a few things to consider. Think about what feels the most fun, expressive, or intuitive to you. You might also consider which apparatus lets you showcase your strengths while also letting you enjoy the ride. You want to feel like yourself up there.
2. Pick Your Song
This is where the vibe starts to come together. Your song sets the tone of your piece, so choose something that lights a fire in you, whether it’s emotionally meaningful or just makes you want to move.
Try to keep it around or under 3 minutes. You want to enjoy your performance and not have it feel like a marathon. Look for music with a dynamic range. Something with a rise and fall, a clear beat, or dramatic pause can help guide your choreography and hold the audience’s attention.
3. Make a List of Your Favorite Moves
This is the fun part! When first making a routine you’ll probably want to list everything you know, but the secret to a great routine isn’t doing everything you know, it’s doing a few things really well. Pick out 5-10 moves that you love and feel confident in and work from there, focusing on clean execution and flow. Also keep in mind that you don’t have to do the hardest skill(s) you know. The audience won’t know the difference.
4. Create Sequences
Once you’ve got your favorite moves, think about how they can flow together. Which ones connect naturally? Where can you build in climbs, drops, or changes in pace? Focus on making your movement feel intentional and smooth and remember that it doesn’t have to be complicated to be captivating. Bonus points for clever transitions or little moments of personality that shine through.
5. Don’t Forget Floorwork
Yep, you’re allowed to touch the ground! In fact, working in and out of the air adds dimension to your piece and gives your body a break. Floorwork can be expressive, grounding (literally), and help you pace your routine.
6. Build In Rest
It’s important you find moments within your piece where you can take a breath. This is a great time to add foundation moves to your routine. Think of ones that may feel too easy to you now, but still look beautiful to the audience’s perspective. These moments give your muscles a break and add contrast that will make your bigger skills stand out even more.
7. Lean on Others
Putting yourself out there can feel vulnerable. Talking about your routine or showing it to others might be intimidating, but you’re in good company. One of the best things about the aerial community is how deeply supportive it is.
If you’re a beginner, connecting with others in your same position can be a game changer. You’ll feel less alone, build confidence, and maybe even make new training buddies. Don’t be afraid to reach out to more experienced students, too! They remember what it felt like to be in your shoes and will probably be enthusiastic to support you.
Reach out to instructors. This could be as simple as asking your instructor a question during class (“hey, I’m thinking of doing these moves in my routine in the upcoming student showcase – do you think they transition well together?”), to messaging them outside of class, or scheduling a private lesson or two. Private lessons are a great way to get constructive feedback and help guide you in a way that will make you feel more prepared and confident.
Let It Evolve
As you start putting it all together, give yourself flexibility both physically and creatively. Maybe that drop you planned feels too risky. Maybe a combo you loved just doesn’t hit right to the music. An injury could have popped up or maybe you just didn’t have enough time to work on your piece as much as you planned to. It’s okay to scale things back or simplify. You can always add layers later if you revisit this piece down the line. Think of it from the audience’s point of view, they don’t know what’s “missing.” They’re just watching someone brave and expressive do something amazing.
Once you have your whole routine, if you finally put it together and you finish way before the music, don’t worry, you’re in good company. Rushing is like a rite of passage when it comes to beginner aerial performances. If you’re finding yourself off the music, take a breath and hold. Milk each move a little longer. Take up space. The slower and more intentional you’ll move, the more powerful it will feel to you and the audience.
The Week Of
Do a FULL run through to music in your costume, including hair & make-up. Make sure your outfit and hair doesn’t snag, shift, or do anything unexpected in the air.
Know your set-up. i.e. apparatus height; specific mats or props you’re using; starting position.
Trust your training. You’ve done the work. Now’s the time to rest, not work harder. You want to show up fresh and injury-free.
Take at least one full rest day before the show. Your body and mind will thank you.
The Day Of!
Fuel up. Eat something nourishing (but not too close to showtime).
Hydrate. You definitely want to drink water, but don’t chug a bottle right before your set. A sloshy stomach or last-minute bathroom run (in a tricky costume, no less) is no one’s idea of a good time.
Arrive early. Give yourself extra time to warm up, settle in, and soak up the backstage vibes. There’s something truly special about the pre-show buzz, don’t rush through it.
Breathe. You’ve got this. You’re not aiming for perfection, you’re aiming to express, connect, and have fun.
Your first aerial performance is about more than the tricks. It’s about courage. It’s about creativity. And it’s about sharing a little piece of yourself with the people watching. Be proud of every step that brought you here. And never forget, your instructors are always here to support you. Celebrate the journey together.
Now go shine. You’ve got this!
