When Every Day is a Circus: Applying Athletic Principles to Aerialists and Acrobats

With approximately 470 shows per year, injury risk mitigation and management among Cirque du Soleil performers requires effective and efficient interventions from an interdisciplinary team. Similar to traditional athletics, well-rehearsed emergency procedures, management of activity workload, and maintenance of chronic conditions require special considerations within each unique setting. This game day is everyday approach requires diligent management of overall performer care to ensure durability and sustainability of peak performance. Practical applications of these principles in this performing arts environment will be presented.