I have never done this before! Where should I start? Why should I start with Trapeze?
Start with at least one 8-week session of Trapeze I. Trapeze is like ballet in that it provides a solid foundation and the vocabulary that will strengthen and support all future aerial work. We have found that most students who begin immediately with silks become frustrated quickly because they lack the upper body strength and aerial awareness (knowledge of your body’s position in the air) that is developed in trapeze. We have developed a class specifically for beginners who want to start with silks, but be advised that you’re taking the tough route!
Is this Flying Trapeze?
No. Aloft does not teach flying trapeze like you see in big circuses, where you swing high above the ground and get caught by another person swinging high above the ground. The type of aerial skills we teach do not provide such a roller coaster like thrill in the beginning (though at higher levels they certainly can). This type of work is more like learning to dance in the air—the type of performances you may see in smaller circuses or shows like “Cirque du Soleil”.
Aren’t I too old/out-of-shape/afraid of heights to take aerial classes?
Nonsense! Most of Aloft’s students are in their 30’s and several of our professional company members didn’t start taking lessons until then! All sizes and types of people can benefit from lessons—the most important thing is to be patient with yourself. When we were kids it took us a long time to learn things from walking to reading to playing our favorite sports. However, as we have grown up in an age of instant gratification we have forgotten that things take time and perseverance. You might not get your legs up on the trapeze for weeks, but you will still be getting better every time you come. Learning aerial work teaches more than just physical skills—you will learn a lot about the way you deal with challenges! As for a fear or heights—Aloft sets trapezes at a variety of levels for our classes and you are welcome to move up as you feel comfortable.
Why are aerial classes at the Aloft Loft more expensive than other types of classes?
We realize that our trapeze classes cost more than yoga or dance classes, and more than some other available trapeze classes. However, Aloft’s instructors are both professional performers AND qualified instructors. We study the art of teaching trapeze and body alignment, attending workshops to keep our instruction at the top of the field. Our instructor to student ratio is kept low, as is our student to equipment ratio, so that you will spend most of the class in the air, rather than waiting for a turn. Additionally, every minute of our classes is filled with quality instruction, rather than leaving students to fend for themselves, or to teach each other. At higher levels improvisation and invention is encouraged, but even this is highly supervised and guided. Many students have claimed to learn more in just one of our classes than they have during months of other classes or independent practice. We feel our classes are worth their price.
Do you offer work-study opportunities?
Aloft offers work-study under very specific situations. Further, work must be completed prior to credit being granted. Work-study may include web support, open gym supervision, office work/office hours, flyer distribution, space cleaning and more. The amount of credit depends on the work being done and is decided on a case-by-case basis. Work-study opportunities are very limited, depend on financial need and working artists pursuing professional development will be given priority.
What should I wear and bring?
You should dress in layers that protect your skin as much as possible. Tights or leggings and a leotard are the best, but sweatpants and a t-shirt will do if the pants have a drawstring and the shirt can be tucked in. Also, bring tall socks and/or leg warmers and anything to keep your body warm. A water bottle is recommended, and you may wish to bring a small snack, especially for longer classes, or if you are taking back to back classes.
What ages go in what classes?
Our classes are for adults, ages 18 and over. In some cases, we will allow students as young as 16 to participate in the adult classes. If you have a child with previous aerial or gymnastics experience who wants to train in the circus/aerial arts, please email Amanda to have a chat about having your child audition for our Aloft Kids! Performance Troupe.
None of these times are good for me! My friends and I want to learn something you don’t offer right now. What can I do?
Aloft can start a new class with a minimum of 3 students. If you need a daytime class, or a preschool class or you want to study rope or hoop or something we aren’t currently offering just let us know! If we get enough interest, we’ll start it up!
How about observing a class or bringing a friend to watch?
You can always come and watch your first class for free. After that we charge an observation fee of $5-10 depending on the class and teacher. Some classes may be closed to observation. Your friends or children (over 12) can come along and wait in our waiting area, which has a sofa, books and a TV, which they can watch with headphones.
