Life as a trapeze artist is about more than just the intense training, nomadic lifestyle, or death-defying stunts; it’s about the spontaneity of creating something new every time a performer takes to the stage. The discipline is demanding, but it fuels the passion to keep telling stories through movement. It’s what keeps the fire alive.

Cirque tour life mirrors that of any traditional touring show: demanding hours, time away from home, and exposure to different cultures and cities. This, of course, is supplemented by the rehearsal element, which emphasizes collaboration and artistic blending to achieve the best possible performance. Additionally, performers must maintain a peak physical condition to consistently execute their stunts at a high level. The job demands a constant state of physical readiness, with the ability to adapt to new disciplines at a moment’s notice.

Often, performers are introduced to movement styles that fall outside their comfort zones, each requiring a unique skill set. Silvia Dopazo, an aerialist from Spain, is currently touring as an aerial artist. The experience has expanded her artistic repertoire, exposing her to a wide range of disciplines beyond her original training, and preparing her for any future artistic endeavors. “I was a rope and tissue artist, and now I’m skating, I am doing chains, bungees… all disciplines I had never done before,” she shares.

Sophie Brandeborn, a performer with AXEL, a touring figure-skating cirque show, describes performing as a truly magical experience; one that overtakes her completely.

“For me… I can almost have an outside-of-body experience, where I see everything from a perspective outside of myself…as you get more comfortable, that’s when the beauty kicks in…when you start getting a connection with the audience. You get secure in your role.”

Duel Reality runs on the Coca-Cola Stage February 5 through March 1, 2026 – learn more.