Bloom Collective Performance Troupe at Shout: Under the Same Sky

Posted on March 27, 2026March 27, 2026 by satarahproductions

Bloom Movement Artistry is excited to introduce the Bloom Collective Performance Troupe—a collaborative performance project created from the heart of our community.

This rotating ensemble of aerialists, movers, and flow artists was built to create bold, meaningful performances for streets, festivals, and unexpected spaces. More than just a troupe, this project is a creative home for performers who want to devise, collaborate, and build something together. Every member contributes. Every voice matters. The process is just as important as the performance itself.

Our newest work, Under the Same Sky, is a family-friendly street circus performance rooted in movement, risk, play, and connection. Through aerial arts, dance, and collaborative storytelling, the show explores the universal human desire to belong, be seen, celebrate, resist, and love.

At its heart, this performance is about:

Acceptance without erasure
Empathy through embodiment
Peace as an active choice
Love as a shared language

This is a show that invites curiosity, celebrates difference, and reminds us that even in a world of many rhythms and ways of moving, we are all still living under the same sky.

Catch Us at SHOUT! Festival

We’re thrilled to share that Under the Same Sky will be presented at SHOUT! Festival in Uptown Charlotte on the Greenway.

Performance Times

April 4, 5, 11 intermittent shows from 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
April 10 at 6:15 PM and 8:15 PM
April 11 at 5:15 PM and 7:15 PM
April 12 at 5:15 PM and 7:15 PM

Host Your Next Event at Bloom Movement Artistry

Posted on March 6, 2026March 9, 2026 by satarahproductions

Bloom Movement Artistry is not just a place to train and build community—it is also a versatile, expansive, and inspiring venue ready to host your next event, rehearsal, workshop, meeting, or photo shoot.

With 4,000 square feet of open space and ceilings rising from 23 to 26 feet, the studio offers a rare sense of vertical freedom. The absence of center columns allows you to design your layout without obstruction, whether you are welcoming 20 guests or up to 150.

Reach out to us at hello@bloommovementartistry.com for availability and detailed pricing.

Events

Our spacious warehouse studio transforms beautifully for performances, private celebrations, charity events, stage shows, and creative gatherings of all kinds.

During the day, natural light filters in through skylights, giving the room a bright and open energy. In the evening, our stage and performance lighting shift the atmosphere into something more dramatic and immersive.

The space includes:

Up to 100 chairs that can be arranged for ceremonies, audiences, panels, or dining layouts
Five rectangular tables and two round tables that can be configured for food service, check-in areas, displays, or collaborative spaces
A built-in sound system with microphones to support speeches, music, and live performances
Stage and performance lighting that enhances presentations and evening events
Parking for up to 60 vehicles, making guest arrival simple and convenient
A lofted upstairs area that can serve as a quieter retreat, meeting room, or storage space during your event (please note the loft is not wheelchair accessible)
WiFi access throughout the building for streaming, presentations, or vendor needs
A filtered water station for guests and performers
A small refrigerator and large cooler available for food and beverage storage

We welcome outside vendors of your choice. Alcohol consumption is permitted. If alcohol will be sold, a valid temporary permit must be provided at least 24 hours prior to the event.

Photoshoots

Bloom offers a flexible, high-ceiling environment that photographers and creatives appreciate for both simplicity and scale.

The studio features:

16 installed aerial rigging points with pulley systems that can support approved décor, suspended backdrops, or apparatus
An open floor plan free of center columns, allowing for clean framing and large-scale setups
Generous ceiling height that allows vertical compositions and suspended elements to shine
Accessible power and WiFi to support lighting setups, tethered shooting, and production needs
Natural daylight from skylights during daytime hours, creating dynamic lighting conditions

Classes and Workshops

As a movement arts studio, Bloom is thoughtfully equipped to support both physical and educational experiences.

The space includes:

A 20’ x 20’ FlexFloor gymnastics carpet area that provides a cushioned surface for movement-based practices
Interlocking hard plastic flooring throughout the remainder of the studio, offering a durable and stable base for a variety of activities
Mats available to support stretching, conditioning, or floor work
A professional sound system with microphones for instructors who need amplification
Tables and chairs that can be arranged classroom-style for lectures, certification programs, or seated workshops
Aerial apparatus available

With convenient parking for up to 60 vehicles and close proximity to the Tyvola Light Rail Station, participants can access the studio with ease.

For availability and pricing, contact us at hello@bloommovementartistry.com.

We look forward to hosting you.

Workshop Weekend with Emma Johnson & Kat Saxon

Posted on March 6, 2026March 6, 2026 by satarahproductions

Bloom Movement Artistry is excited to welcome Emma Johnson and Kat Saxon for a special weekend of aerial workshops designed to expand your technique, creativity, and movement vocabulary. This series of classes explores dynamic aerial hoop skills, expressive dance trapeze work, and innovative sequencing that will challenge and inspire students at multiple levels.

Whether you’re looking to refine foundational technique, explore new transitions, or dive deeper into creative aerial movement, these workshops offer unique opportunities to train with experienced performers and instructors from the Southeast aerial community.

Forever Flares with Emma

In this 90-minute aerial hoop workshop, students will break down the foundations and mechanics of flares. Starting with the core techniques and fundamental movements, the class will progressively build toward new entrances and variations within the hoop.

Students will explore how controlled momentum and body positioning create efficient and powerful flare sequences.

Prerequisites: Students must be comfortable spinning.

Interlaced: Intermediate Ropes Workshop with Kat

Interlaced is an intermediate to advanced dance trapeze workshop focused on creative sequencing within the ropes. Designed for students who already feel comfortable working off the bar, this workshop explores how the ropes themselves can become an active partner in choreography rather than simply a transition space.

Participants will explore wraps, pathways, and transitions that emphasize momentum, musicality, and spatial awareness. The workshop blends technical instruction with improvisational exploration, encouraging students to develop personalized movement logic and expressive flow while maintaining safe and repeatable technique.

This workshop is ideal for aerialists looking to expand their rope vocabulary and deepen transitions between shapes.

Prerequisites:

Be comfortable working independently in the air
Have solid dance trapeze fundamentals
Safely enter and exit the ropes without instructor spotting
Feel confident with inversions and hip hangs
Be familiar with rope wraps such as flamenco, crotchet, and reverse grip

Beats and Dynamic Flow with Emma

This 90-minute aerial hoop workshop introduces the foundations of beats and dynamic sequencing on the top bar. Students will learn both frontal and lateral beats and explore how they can be incorporated into flowing aerial combinations.

The workshop focuses on building strength, timing, and coordination through sequences that include rolls, re-grips, and dynamic transitions designed to improve full-body control and fluid movement.

Prerequisites: Students should have a strong and confident long-arm hang.

Splits All Over with Emma

In this 90-minute hoop workshop, Emma shares several of her favorite split shapes and variations on the aerial hoop. Students will explore creative grips and pathways that create unique split positions throughout the apparatus.

These shapes are designed to be accessible for a wide range of students—a full 180° split is not required.

Prerequisites:

Have a solid range of mobility and flexibility
Be able to confidently invert to the top bar
Feel comfortable navigating the full hoop

Catch Waves: Low Dance Trapeze Exploration with Kat

Catch Waves is a creative exploration workshop built around dance trapeze improvisation and contemporary movement. Using a trapeze rigged closer to the ground, students will experiment with blending modern dance influences and aerial technique.

Kat’s coaching style focuses on helping artists develop foundational movement skills that make working low to the ground feel natural and expressive. Students will explore elements such as:

Slides
Spins
Floor-to-air transitions
Rolling movements beneath the bar
Developing musicality and personal movement style

By the end of the workshop, participants will leave with greater movement intuition and creative freedom, along with new tools to expand their aerial artistry.

Prerequisites:

Have at least one year of dance trapeze experience
Be comfortable spinning for extended periods
Be familiar with flamenco wrap and rolling on the bar in hip hang, back balance, and armpits
Feel comfortable rolling on hardwood flooring (knee pads recommended if needed)

Twisted Transitions with Emma

In this 90-minute aerial hoop workshop, Emma will guide students through several of her favorite creative transitions on the hoop. Expect unusual shapes, clever pathways, and transitions that lead to surprising and expressive aerial sequences.

Students will explore how subtle changes in body placement and grip can unlock entirely new ways to move through familiar shapes.

Prerequisites:

Invert comfortably
Navigate the top of the hoop confidently

Guest Instructor Bios:

Emma Johnson

Emma Johnson trained in classical and contemporary ballet before discovering aerial arts in Charlotte, North Carolina in 2015. After relocating to Atlanta, she trained at The Space under Constance Echo Palmer and continued developing her focus on aerial hoop.

Emma has performed with theater groups and entertainment companies including The Off Centered Project, AveNoir Arts, and Element Circus. Her work blends physical strength with emotional storytelling, creating performances that connect deeply with audiences.

She is also a founding collaborator of Crux Collective, a contemporary aerial performance company centered around community and creative exploration. Emma currently teaches aerial hoop, flexibility, and act creation at Challenge Aerial in Atlanta.

Kat Saxon

Kat Saxon is a dance trapeze artist, choreographer, and instructor whose work centers on expressive aerial storytelling. The single-point trapeze is her primary apparatus, though she also explores lyra, rope, and sling.

Kat began training aerial arts in 2011 at Canopy Studio in Athens, Georgia, where she developed her movement style alongside renowned instructors. She later expanded her training in Atlanta with Nicole Mermans and The D’air Project, where she further developed her performance and teaching career.

Kat earned her Nimble Arts Teacher Training Certification and has been coaching since 2016, specializing in helping students develop choreography and personal movement style.

She is also a co-founder and artistic director of Crux Collective, working to grow collaborative performance opportunities within Atlanta’s arts community.

When she’s not in the air, Kat can usually be found around the studio enjoying French pastries and coffee from the bakery down the street.

Ice Out !!

Posted on February 12, 2026February 12, 2026 by satarahproductions

Movement is Political

Art has always been a form of resistance – a way to claim space, to demand visibility, to say what matters when someone tries to silence us.

At Bloom Movement Artistry, inclusivity, community, and safety are engrained in our core values. Our studio is about more than just learning aerial and circus skills. It’s about building a space where people can show up fully as themselves – where LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, immigrants, and anyone who’s been told they don’t belong can create without fear.

Our Values

We stand firmly with immigrant communities and do not support ICE. It is important to protect and support our immigrant communities who are being targeted, detained, and terrorized. In these times of rising violence and systemic injustice, neutrality is not an option.

An easy way to support those around you is to know your rights and be prepared. We have attached a few resources below:

https://carolinamigrantnetwork.org/
ourBRIDGE for KIDS – Supporting Refugee & Immigrant Students https://share.google/ojIK6xbwFy8quSn5P
https://www.ihclt.org/
https://charlottelegaladvocacy.org/immigrants/
https://www.meckmin.org/post/charlotte-mecklenburg-work-with-immigrants-and-refugees-organizations-resources

The Power We Hold Together

As a community of artists, activists, and free-thinkers, we have real power. Today, we can take action by doing the following:

Educate ourselves and others about what’s happening
Support our neighbors who are most at risk
Use our platforms to amplify marginalized voices
Show up with resources when our community needs us
Keep creating spaces where everyone is welcomed and celebrated!

Your art matters. Your presence matters. Your solidarity matters.

No one is free until we are all free. Nadie es libre hasta que todas y todos seamos libres.

Did Someone Say Trapeze?

Posted on September 11, 2025July 11, 2025 by satarahproductions

When you think of a trapeze, the image that likely comes to mind is two ropes and a bar. But have you ever stopped to consider the incredible range of movements and feats that can be performed on a trapeze? Since its inception in 1859, the trapeze has undergone remarkable evolution, becoming an iconic part of circus history. Although it wasn’t the first aerial art, flying trapeze has long been synonymous with the circus, captivating audiences with its daring acrobatics.

Types of Trapezes

Today, trapeze has expanded into several distinct forms, each with its own unique training, rigging, and strength requirements. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular types:

Flying Trapeze

Flying trapeze involves two trapezes suspended 20 to 40 feet above the ground. One trapeze has a “catcher,” while the other has a “flier.” Both trapezes swing, and the flier leaps from one bar, soaring through the air to be caught by the catcher on the other trapeze.

Swinging Trapeze

This style uses a single trapeze, typically hung at the same height as flying trapeze. The aerialist must generate their own swing, and all the tricks are performed on the one bar, requiring significant control and skill.

Static Trapeze

Static trapeze also uses a single bar but is often rigged much lower. The ropes are fixed directly above the bar, parallel to each other. The focus here is on generating momentum through the body, allowing the performer to execute tricks both under the bar, on the bar, and in the ropes, while trying to keep the trapeze as still as possible.

Dance Trapeze

Dance trapeze is usually rigged from a single point with a swivel above, allowing the entire apparatus to spin. Typically, the bar is positioned closer to the ground, making it ideal for combining trapeze techniques with dance and fluid movement.

What We Do at Bloom Movement Artistry

At Bloom Movement Artistry, we primarily focus on dance trapeze. Thanks to our pulley systems, we rig our apparatuses from a single point, which makes it easier to teach beginners at lower heights. Many of our students have a fear of heights, so starting low to the ground helps them gain confidence and control. As students progress, we gradually raise the height to continue challenging their skills.

Is Trapeze Painful?

While the trapeze bar is typically made from steel and can feel uncomfortable at times, most of the foundational movements are not painful. With proper technique and positioning, discomfort can be minimized. The beauty of trapeze lies in its combination of strength, flexibility, and artistry, not in enduring pain.

What Is the Trapeze Made Of?

Trapeze bars are commonly crafted from stainless steel, though some are made from lightweight carbon fiber. The ropes are usually cotton but can also be made from synthetic materials like nylon or polyester. Static trapezes and certain dance trapezes feature ropes with steel cables at the core for added strength and stability, though this isn’t always the case.

Where Should You Start?

If you’re new to trapeze, we recommend beginning with our 3-Week Beginner Series or Foundations classes.

3-Week Beginner Series: This course offers a gentle introduction to aerial arts, with everyone in the class learning at the same pace. Each series runs on the same day and time for three weeks and is capped at 8 students, ensuring personalized attention.
Foundations Classes: These mixed-level sessions cater to students’ individual progress and provide a flexible option with no commitment. Expect to learn 1-2 new skills each class while building strength. Like the Beginner Series, Foundations classes are also capped at 8 students.

I Want My Own Trapeze! Where Do I Get One?

Trapezes can be quite an investment, as many are custom-made to fit the specific needs and preferences of the performer. The bars vary in length, and you can often choose details like the color of the ropes and elbows. If you’re thinking about purchasing your own trapeze, take your time and consult with your coach before making any decisions. The process of selecting the right trapeze for you should be thoughtful and intentional.

For purchasing, check out these suppliers:

Aerial Animals
Circus Concepts
Fire Toys
Don Carson/ Dancetrapeze.com

Preparing for Your First Aerial Performance

Posted on September 9, 2025July 19, 2025 by satarahproductions

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!

The Power of Cross-Training in Aerial Arts

Posted on August 19, 2025July 19, 2025 by satarahproductions

Let’s start with the basics, what is cross-training and why is it important? Cross-training is all about mixing up your fitness routine with exercises outside of aerial. This could include strength training and cardio, more targeted exercises like pilates, yoga, or other changes to your fitness routine. There are a ton of ways to cross train depending on your goals, needs and interests.

The benefits of cross-training for aerialists are endless. It can help you build strength, improve flexibility, enhance endurance, develop body awareness, and reduce your risk of overuse injuries. Let’s break down how.

Building Strength

Incorporating strength training helps build the muscles needed for aerial movements that might not be as heavily used in the air. By focusing on compound exercises (movements that engage multiple muscle groups and joints simultaneously) you can build overall strength and power. I.e. squats, deadlifts, push-ups, and pull-ups.

If you need guidance with this, you’re not alone. We have plenty of skilled instructors who can support you. We also have a class specific for this purpose – Strength Training Foundations.

Improving Flexibility

Flexibility isn’t just about splits and touching your toes. It’s about developing control through your range of motion and protecting your body from injury. Yoga and pilates are both great for this and popular among aerialists because the movements complement what we do in the air so well. We even have Yoga Classes right here at Bloom!

You can also explore resistance band mobility drills and floor-based active flexibility work that target something specific like splits, backbends, or shoulder mobility. The key is consistency. Doing a little bit often is far better for your body than one intense stretch session a week. To learn more, check our Flexibility Classes.

Remember: flexibility is not about forcing your body into extreme positions. It’s about building a sustainable and functional range that supports you in the air and keeps your body working efficiently long-term.

Enhancing Endurance

I know, you hear the word “endurance” and probably immediately think of running…which for a lot of us is just not appealing. Totally fair. (Unless you like running, then that’s great!) But if it’s not your jam, there are so many other options. Swimming and cycling are great options that can also boost cardio without pounding pavement.

Even within your aerial practice you can build endurance. For example, avoiding sitting down when practicing. This is not to say that rest isn’t important, because it absolutely is, but think about all the times when you’re practicing, you take a video of what you’re doing, go back and watch the video…only to sit down and end up getting distracted by notifications and end up doom scrolling. We’ve all been there. Staying upright and gently active between runs keeps your heart rate up and your body engaged.

Developing Body Awareness

Cross-training helps identify and address muscle imbalances that often go unnoticed in aerial training alone. Certain movement patterns are often emphasized in aerial, like pulling, hanging, and backbending, while neglecting others. Because aerial relies heavily on specific muscle groups, others can be underutilized, leading to imbalances that affect alignment, coordination, and control in the air.

Reducing Risk of Overuse Injury

Repetition is a key part of aerial training, but too much of the same thing can lead to overuse injuries. Cross-training introduces new movement types that strengthen underused muscles, improve joint stability, and promote balanced muscle development and range of motion throughout the body.

Cross-training isn’t just an extra thing to check off your to-do list, it’s a vital part of becoming a stronger, safer, and more well-rounded aerialist. The best part? You can make it whatever you want it to be, shaping it to fit your personal needs and interests. Whether you’re new to the air or have years of experience, incorporating different forms of movement can elevate your training and keep your body happy and healthy.

If you’re not sure where to start, talk to your instructor or try a new class. You might be surprised by what you enjoy!

Aerial Silks 101

Posted on August 11, 2025July 11, 2025 by satarahproductions

Aerial silks is a beautiful vertical apparatus that allows performers to appear as if they are dancing on air. Often, we see performers wrap themselves up in the fabric, unwind quickly, or drop with great force. While we commonly call them “aerial silks,” they’re also known as tissu, fabrics, or ribbons.

Silks are soft, right?

Aerial silks may feel soft and malleable, conforming to the shape of the performer, but that doesn’t mean they won’t hurt! The tension created by your body weight inside the fabrics can feel quite “squeezy,” so we often warn students before they try certain skills and condition their bodies to prepare for it.

What’s the upside?

Despite the initial discomfort, aerial silks lend themselves to beautiful shape-making, fun spins, and stunning sequences. Once you get used to the squeezing sensation, you’ll feel majestic and powerful. For thrill-seekers, drops can provide quite the adrenaline rush!

What are aerial silks made of?

Aerial silks are made of a four-way stretch nylon tricot blend. You might wonder why it’s called “silks” when they’re made from nylon. The answer lies in nylon’s high heat resistance, durability, and just the right amount of stretch. If the fabric were made from actual silk, it would have no stretch, making dynamic skills difficult and more painful. Silk is also less textured, which would make it harder to grip.

Typically, the fabrics are either 96″ or 108″ wide, with varying lengths based on the rigging space height.

Where should I start?

We recommend starting with either our 3-Week Beginner Series or our Foundations classes.

Our Beginner Series is perfect for those who want a slower, more gentle introduction to aerial. Everyone in the class will be at the same level, learning the same skills. This series runs on the same day and time for all three weeks and is capped at 8 students.

Foundations classes are often mixed-level, catering to the students in each session. These classes have no commitment, and you can attend as often as you’d like. You’ll likely learn 1–2 new skills per class and work on building strength. These classes are also capped at 8 students.

I’m loving aerial silks and want my own! Where do I get them, how do I care for them, and what else will I need?

When should I get my own apparatus?

We think it’s fantastic that you’re in love with aerial silks and want your own apparatus! However, please don’t rush into purchasing one. The studio you train at likely has plenty of silks available for everyone, and they handle all the upkeep, saving you money and hassle. Once you’re ready to perform in nightclubs or set up a home rig, that’s a good time to buy your own. (Note: home rigging can be dangerous and requires more than just a simple ceiling attachment—please reach out if you have questions.)

Where should I buy my silks?

We recommend the following reputable companies:

Circus Gear
Circus Concepts
Aerial Essentials

These companies are widely trusted, though there are others out there. When purchasing, remember to double the height of the space you’re filling and add a couple of extra yards for the tail on the floor.

What else will I need?

It’s not just about buying the silks! You’ll also need rated hardware for safety. Rated hardware is tested to ensure it can handle dynamic loads, giving you peace of mind about its strength. We purchase most of our hardware from Circus Gear, but Petzl is another popular brand in our industry. Here’s what you’ll need:

Rescue 8
2 carabiners
1 swivel

How do I take care of my aerial silks and hardware?

Proper care is essential! Each time you use your silks, inspect them thoroughly for holes, runs, or tears. Catching small issues early can prevent bigger problems down the road.

Wash your silks with fragrance-free, natural laundry detergent—chemicals in regular detergents can break down the fabric and make it brittle, leading to tears.

Additionally, inspect your hardware before each use to make sure there’s no significant wear (ideally, no more than 10% metal-on-metal wear).

If you have any questions about hardware, rigging, or apparatus care, feel free to reach out!

Sister of the Skies

Posted on July 11, 2025July 11, 2025 by satarahproductions

Sisters of the Skies: An Aerial Valkyrie Spectacle

What do you get when you cross the fierce spirit of Valkyries, the timeless art of storytelling, and the breathtaking feats of contemporary circus? You get Sisters of the Skies!

What is Sisters of the Skies?

Sisters of the Skies is a unique performance company dedicated to re-imagining mythical narratives through the dynamic lens of contemporary circus. Our mission is to celebrate femininity, unity, and non-romantic love, breathing new life into ancient tales.

Currently, our captivating performances draw inspiration from Norse Mythology, specifically the Poetic and Prose Eddas. These rare written works offer invaluable glimpses into the stories and beliefs of the Viking Era (approximately 793–1066 CE). While many of these traditional narratives often lean towards male-dominated plots, we’ve thoughtfully adapted them. Our re-imaginings restore power to femme characters, moving away from “damsel in distress” tropes and instead presenting epic adventures led by three formidable Valkyries. In the future, we eagerly anticipate exploring diverse pantheons and their rich mythologies.

How Do Circus Arts Enhance the Story?

Storytelling is at the heart of what we do, but we believe in pairing narrative with captivating movement. This fusion creates a truly immersive experience that appeals to a wider audience, especially those drawn to physical artistry. Our talented performers utilize a diverse array of circus arts to craft this full sensory journey. Aerial arts beautifully convey the ethereal flight of the Valkyries, while carefully chosen props symbolize iconic items or characters from the mythology, further enriching the visual tapestry of our tales.

Meet Our Valkyries

Our stories revolve around three central Valkyries, each embodying distinct strengths and characteristics:

Sigardrifa: Known as the scholar among Valkyries, Sigardrifa guides mortals towards their destinies. In our performances, she serves as our insightful storyteller, acting as a direct guide for the audience through the narrative.
Svava: A loyal and powerful friend, Svava is intimately connected to fate and the outcomes of battles. She is depicted as a fierce and protective beauty, embodying strength and unwavering loyalty.
Göndul/Freyja: The chooser of slain warriors, Göndul and Freyja are two aspects of one powerful being. Göndul, a formidable wand-wielder, appears in many ancient texts. Freyja, renowned as the goddess of love, also commands the realm of death. As the leader of our Valkyries, she possesses a special cloak of feathers, granting her the power to shapeshift into a falcon.

Together, these three Valkyries embark on adventures that powerfully showcase feminine heroism, the profound strength of community, and the beauty of non-romantic soulmate connections.

Why Is Telling These Stories Important to Us?

We believe it’s vital to teach young audiences that radical independence, while often celebrated, pales in comparison to the collective power of working together to create the world we envision. We also emphasize the importance of problem-solving without relying on external “saviors.”

“Girl power,” in our view, extends beyond gender; it’s a universal message for all humans, promoting empowerment and collaboration.

Where Can You See Sisters of the Skies?

Catch Sisters of the Skies at these upcoming events:

World Refugee Day with Boom CLT: June 21st, 1 PM – 4 PM
Carolina Renaissance Festival: October 4th – November 23rd
Georgia Fall Festival (Georgia Renaissance Festival): November 1st – December 6th

What About Sling?

Posted on July 11, 2025July 11, 2025 by satarahproductions

It’s a sling! It’s a hammock! It’s… the best time ever! Whatever you call it, the wonderful world of sling has so much to offer us. Sling is a very beginner-friendly apparatus because the sling is holding onto you! It’s super supportive and you don’t have to use all of your strength for climbing, etc. The range of moves and pathways on sling is incredibly vast: from very beginner-friendly poses to stacking drops that take us all the way up to the rafters, there’s something in a sling for everyone!

Is it aerial yoga? You may have seen aerial slings/hammocks in studios that offer classes like aerial yoga. The fabric is the same, but the types of wraps and pathways we do on sling will be more “circus-y” than what you may find in a typical aerial yoga class. For example, many aerial yoga poses involve some of your body on the ground AND some of your body in the sling (i.e. a plank with hands on the ground but feet in the sling). This is a great workout, but what we do in aerial sling classes will be different – your whole body will be off the ground! We will also talk more about aerial sling sequencing, wrap theory, poses, etc. This class is ALL about the fabric and what we can do in it.

Does it hurt? Any time you’re learning a new apparatus, there are some new sensations we will need to get accustomed to. The biggest observation people have about sling is that it can feel a little “squeezy” sometimes. You’re putting your body weight into a fabric wrap, so there will be some tension in the fabric that people may experience as a “squeezy” feeling. However, we have lots of ways to work with that! We will talk about what engagements you can do to counter the feeling of that tension. And we will also do conditioning for those feelings – the more we work on those skills, the less we will feel that tight sensation! Plus, above all else, everything we do in class is optional. If you get to a place and your body is just saying “no”, we honor that feeling and will do something different.

Where should I start? We recommend starting with either a 3-Week Beginner Series, or our Foundations classes.

Our beginner series is great for people that want a slower, more gentle entry into the aerial world. Everyone in this class will be at the same brand new level, and each student will learn the exact same skills. This happens at the same day and time each week for 3 weeks in a row. These classes cap at 8 people.

Foundations classes will often be mixed-level classes, catering to the students signed up. Some students will be brand new and some students may have spent a few months or more in Foundations classes. You can take these classes as often as you’d like (we have 4 Sling Foundations classes per week!) and there is no commitment. You will likely learn 2-4 new skills per class, plus work on strength building. These classes cap at 8 people.

We’re lucky at BMA to have our points on pulleys. This means that we can adjust the height for you as needed. Depending on the skill, we may have the sling rigged low enough to step into, or we may need a bit more height if we’re going upside down! We can always bring the sling up or down for you however you need it.

Ok! I love it! Should I buy my own? We usually recommend waiting a bit before buying your own equipment. You will want to learn a variety of wraps & poses before buying anything as you determine how much length you would want in your sling and how high you prefer to be rigged off the ground. Another very important thing to remember is that you will need a secure, rated point to rig from – you can always come to Open Gym at the studio once you’re an active student! If you do decide to buy your own equipment, this is where we’d recommend:

Fire Toys

Aerial Essentials