Thursday, June 26, 2014

Aerial Silk, Ribbons, Scarves, Ties And Equipment Flight Routines

By Sherry Gross


Acrobats and dancers alike use ribbons, scarves, ties and trapezes in a variety of circus and performance art routines. Depending on region, the movement known as often as aerial silk can include use of different equipment which resembles flight. Colorful ribbons, ties and other fabrics are used as if each were a trapeze.

Performers entertain audiences with acrobatic and artistic movements in concert with these hanging fabrics. Each artist also uses these hangings as a basis for different movements. These movements may include basic swinging, or more advanced movements like flips, jumps, spirals twists and turns.

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.

When desiring to merely use flight equipment and fabric for aerial exercise and fun, it is easy to set up a home sky gym. Doing so requires strong ceilings and walls but can bring a great about better health, a happier life and more time at home. Once set up, the individual can then decide whether to host others over for an exercise class or keep as a private retreat.

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.

Acrobats, dancers, performance artists and others who love to move are most likely going to love aerial equipment. Whether bouncing on a trampoline, swinging on a flying trapeze, or staging poses in mid-air while hanging on and swinging between different types of fabric, aerial arts have existed for quite some time. While trapeze acts are still popular, fabrics are often more colorful and can be used in both large performances such as a Circus as well as one-person shows.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment