When I first started at Aerial I started hearing about a “show” and was intrigued. You mean, people actually get on stage and perform for others? I was also confused because there were different events, set up differently. The student showcase just wrapped up and the annual show, which will be in November, will start being talked about and planned for. So, what are the shows? Why are they different? Which one should you do?
The quick answer to which one you should do is, ALL OF THEM. The long answer is, every show you do, every performance you take part in is a different experience. Almost three years later, and I have participated in 3 shows, all very different, all very memorable.
The annual show is the one every fall. This show is epic. A theme is picked every year for this show, and all of the songs fit into the theme in some way. During the show all of the instructors are able to do solos, doubles, trios, etc and show their skills. The opening act and the closing act are typically large groups of instructors. This show also allows groups of 6 students to come together, sharing three poles for instructor choreographed performances. For the student performances, the instructors choose which level they are going to choreograph as well as which song they want. Students then sign up for the level, song, and instructor combo they want. Once the groups are set, instructors begin working with the students in the group on what they are capable of doing and what moves they prefer. Students start practicing the moves and routines and figuring out costume. Due to their being 6 people and 3 poles, students get to work on doubles moves and other multi person tricks. There is often some acro and or dancing in the routines. And after a few months of practicing, the groups perform amazing masterpieces in front of hundreds of people.
The student showcase is in the spring. This show allows for students to work on their competition routines in front of a crowd, or just get creative and perform. Students can pick the number of people they want in their group, including doing solos. Students have the option to write their own choreography or work with an instructor. Students have the option to perform on any of the apparatuses, including doing aerial and pole in the same routine. For this show, there is only 2 poles. In the most recent student showcase, there were also four person instructor choreographed songs that ran similar to the annual show’s set up. The audience for this show is typically limited to closer to 200 people.
A little way up I may have scared you when you read about performing in front of hundreds of people. Do not be scared. The crowd is the most encouraging and excited crowd there could be. And of course, the instructors and other students are there being their best hype girl, supportive selves.