Welcome back to another exciting semester at BU Dance! A new semester means new dance classes – which for 2019 includes several brand-new specialized workshops in aerial dance.
In these workshops, new and seasoned aerial dancers alike can explore dance-based low aerial sling and bungee. Meanwhile, dancers with at least one semester of aerial dance experience can participate in circus-style high aerial sling.
But what do those words even mean? That’s what we’re here for! This blog post will give you an introduction to the different kinds of aerial dance techniques you can explore as part of BU Dance’s specialized workshops.
Meanwhile, save the date for Monday, February 18th (the President’s Day holiday), when all of these incredible workshops are running! Visit bu.edu/fitrec/dance to register for one, two or all three workshops – and we look forward to seeing you then.
Low Aerial Sling
What it is: Aerial sling gets its name from the piece of equipment used to perform the moves. It is a hammock-like structure of fabric that allows the dancer to get his or her entire body inside the sling to perform a variety of poses and drops. For low aerial sling, no prior experience is necessary. High aerial swing is considered more advanced because of the strength and experience it takes to get to those heights.
Why you should try it: Aerial sling is both an excellent workout and a beautiful performance art! If you are a dancer looking to cross-train and broaden your horizons at the same time, aerial sling is the perfect style for you. At low heights, the sling is a great starting points for beginners new to aerial dance. It also helps to build core strength: a necessary skill for dancers of all disciplines!
Photo by Bill Parsons/Maximal Image
Bungee
What it is: Bungee-assisted dance is a category of aerial arts in which dancers are suspended from bungee cords attached to harnesses. This allows them to dance as they are suspended mid-air with the support of the bungee, giving the appearance of flight. It has become popular in the dance and theater worlds, as well as started a fitness craze!
Why you should try it: Who doesn’t want to learn how to fly? If you are nervous about dancing at great heights, the support of the bungee and the attached harness may help to steady your nerves. In addition to being a beautiful art form and a tough workout, bungee-assisted dance is also an amazing skill for aspiring professional performers to have. Showing that you have mastered the art of the bungee may be just enough to land you the big part you were hoping for!
Photo by Bill Parsons/Maximal Image
Circus-Style High Aerial Sling
What it is: High aerial sling uses the same piece of equipment as the low aerial sling, only it is performed at much greater heights. Think back on your childhood trips to the circus, and you will most likely understand why it is called “circus-style” aerial sling! Performers in the circus climb high on the slings to dazzle and impress their audiences.
Why you should try it: If you are a seasoned aerial dancer with at least one semester of experience, you may find yourself mastering the basics and wondering what else aerial dance has to offer. Our workshop in circus-style high aerial sling will challenge you to take your aerial dance practice to the next level. You will engage your muscles and your brain as you learn new moves unique to this style of aerial sling.
