Aerial Silks

Aerial

Aerial silk (also known as tissu or fabric) is a type of aerial performance in which artists climb, wrap, and drop from two long strips of fabric suspended from the ceiling.

Tricks

20

Angel

Intermediate

A pose with both arms extended to the sides while suspended by hip or foot wraps.

Arabesque

Intermediate

A one-legged pose in the air with the free leg extended behind, similar to the ballet position.

Belay Wrap

Beginner

A basic wrapping technique used for climbing and as a foundation for other moves.

Bow and Arrow

Intermediate

A pose where one leg is pulled back like drawing a bow while the other leg extends.

Catherine Wheel

Advanced

A spinning descent named after the firework, creating a wheel-like visual effect.

Cocoon

Intermediate

The performer wraps themselves entirely in the silk fabric, creating a cocoon shape.

Cross-Back Straddle

Intermediate

A straddle position with the silks crossed behind the back, allowing a hands-free balance.

Double Foot Lock Climb

Beginner

A climb technique using both feet locked in the silk for a secure ascent.

Double Star

Expert

A variation of the star drop that includes two rotations before catching.

Foot Lock

Beginner

A basic wrap around the foot used as the foundation for many silk positions and climbs.

French Climb

Beginner

The most common climbing technique on silks, using a foot lock to stand and reach higher.

Gazelle

Advanced

An inverted pose with one leg bent and one extended, creating an elegant line.

Hip Key

Beginner

A fundamental wrapping position where the silk wraps around the hips, creating a seated position.

S-Wrap

Intermediate

A wrap that creates an S-shape around the body, used for various poses and transitions.

Salto Drop

Expert

An advanced drop involving a somersault before catching in the silk wraps.

Scorpion

Advanced

An extreme backbend position where the feet reach toward or touch the head.

Silk Slide

Beginner

A controlled slide down the silk from height, one of the first descending techniques learned.

Splits in the Air

Intermediate

A front or side splits position performed while suspended on the silks.

Star Drop

Advanced

A dramatic drop from height where the performer falls in a star shape before catching in a wrap.

Windmill Drop

Advanced

A spinning drop where the performer rotates while falling through the silks.

Aerial Silks | CircusConnect