Planning an event that sticks in everyone’s minds is no easy task. You’ve got the catering sorted, the lighting on point, and the perfect playlist queued up—but something feels missing. 

That wow factor your guests will talk about long after they’ve left. Enter the aerialist show, an entertainment choice that’s equal parts daring, elegant, and mesmerizing.

Let’s talk about why aerialists are the ultimate game-changer for your next event—and how to make it happen.

What Is an Aerialist Show?

If you’ve seen Cirque du Soleil or stumbled across jaw-dropping Instagram reels, you already know what an aerialist does: performers defy gravity with acrobatics, often suspended by silks, hoops, or trapezes. But this isn’t just about tricks in the air. It’s an art form—a blend of strength, flexibility, and storytelling that turns any venue into a stage for awe.

Aerialist shows are customizable, too. Whether you’re hosting a black-tie gala or a backyard wedding, you can tailor performances to match your vibe. Want something sleek and modern? Think aerialists performing on hoops in chic monochrome costumes. Looking for whimsy? Picture performers twirling on silks, dripping with sequins, under fairy lights.

Why Aerial Performances Work

1. Visual Impact

There’s a reason aerialists are the centerpiece of so many upscale events: they’re impossible to ignore. While your guests are sipping cocktails or milling about, seeing someone floating elegantly above them stops everything. It’s a scene-stealer.

But it’s not just about looking good (though, trust me, it’s stunning). Aerial acts create energy in a way that few performances can. Whether it’s a slow, emotive routine or a high-energy, jaw-clenching sequence, the emotional pull is undeniable.

2. Versatility

Think aerial performances only work in massive theaters? Think again. These shows are adaptable to almost any space. From ballrooms to outdoor patios, aerialists can work with rigging specialists to make magic happen. And don’t assume you need high ceilings—there are plenty of low-height routines that deliver just as much impact.

For outdoor venues, portable rigs are a lifesaver. No beams or pre-installed rigging? No problem. With the right team, even the middle of a grassy field can host a world-class aerial show.

3. The Unpredictable Factor

Let’s face it: a lot of event entertainment has become predictable. Aerialists flip that script (literally). The element of surprise is baked into their performances. When was the last time your guests looked up during an event? Aerialists make sure they do.

Types of Aerial Acts

One of the best parts of booking an aerialist show is the variety. Here’s a quick breakdown of the options to help you decide what fits your event:

• Silks: Aerialists climb, twist, and drop dramatically from long fabric strips. This one’s perfect for romantic vibes or high-drama moments.

• Hoops (Lyra): Circular metal rings let performers spin and contort gracefully. These acts can feel ethereal or edgy, depending on the aesthetic.

• Trapeze: For a classic circus feel, trapeze acts bring a mix of nostalgia and thrills.

• Cube/Custom Apparatus: Some aerialists work with unique props like cubes, chandeliers, or even custom shapes to align with your theme.

Each apparatus offers something unique. Silks are fluid and graceful; hoops can be hypnotic with their spins; trapeze adds a dash of vintage daring.

Making It Happen: Key Considerations

Venue Logistics

Before you get too carried away with visions of spinning aerialists, there are practical details to sort out. Rigging is the first hurdle. Some venues come equipped with rigging points, while others will require external setups like freestanding rigs.

If you’re unsure, work with the aerialists directly—they usually have rigging experts who can survey the space and ensure everything’s safe and secure.

Safety First

This isn’t something you DIY. Always book professionals with experience and proper insurance. They’ll have protocols in place to ensure your event is as safe as it is spectacular.

Timing and Flow

Don’t just plop an aerialist show in the middle of dinner without a plan. Coordinate the performance with your schedule. Aerial shows work best as a focal point, whether it’s kicking off the evening, creating a momentary pause in the festivities, or serving as a grand finale.

Costumes and Themes

The beauty of aerialists is their ability to integrate seamlessly into your theme. From costumes to music, you can work with performers to make their act feel like an organic extension of your event.

Crowd Engagement: The Secret Sauce

Aerial shows aren’t just something to watch—they can be interactive, too. Some aerialists include audience participation, like handing out props or incorporating a surprise guest into the act. If your event is less formal, consider adding a “meet the performer” moment post-show. Guests will love snapping photos with the stars of the night.

Another option? Ambient aerial performances. Instead of one big show, aerialists can perform shorter routines throughout the evening, adding an air of mystique and surprise without dominating the schedule.

How to Choose the Right Performer

Not all aerialists are created equal. Before booking, consider the following:

• Experience: Look for performers with strong credentials and a portfolio of past events. Bonus points for videos showcasing their style.

• Flexibility: Every event is different. Make sure the performer is open to customizing their act to fit your needs.

• Rigging Expertise: If your venue isn’t pre-rigged, ensure the aerialist has a team who can handle the technical side.

• Insurance: Non-negotiable. This is about your guests’ safety as much as the performer’s.

At the end of the day, an aerialist show is an investment in creating unforgettable moments. It’s more than entertainment—it’s an experience. The kind that turns “just another party” into the event people can’t stop raving about.

Your guests may not remember what wine they drank or what flowers were on the table, but they’ll definitely remember the moment an aerialist twisted into a perfect split ten feet above their heads. And isn’t that the kind of magic every event deserves?

Whether it’s the drama of a fabric drop, the elegance of a hoop spin, or the thrill of a trapeze trick, aerial performances bring a unique spark to any occasion.