Intro to Dance Trapeze

Grab hold! Suspend below. Perch above. A world of possibility hangs within the architecture of two ropes and a steel bar. You'll learn to wrap, twist, swing, and spin to your hearts content! This workshop is open to beginners and will cover the fundamentals of single point dance trapeze. 

Prerequisites: While you don't have to be able to do a pull-up to take this workshop, you should feel comfortable supporting your full body weight while hanging from your hands. A ball inversion (i.e. pulling yourself upside down in a tucked ball shape) is recommended but not required.

Wear comfortable, form-fitting athletic clothing. A fitted shirt or one that can be tucked in will keep you covered when you go upside down. Pants or leggings that cover your ankles and backs of your knees will protect you from trapeze rope burns and make the trapeze bar more comfortable. Be sure to bring water. Space is limited to 8 students. (Age 13+) 

About the Instructor:

Alison Johnson specializes in contemporary dance and single point trapeze. Alison began dancing at the age of 12 and earned a dual degree in Dance (A.B) and Child and Family Development (B.S.) from the University of Georgia. She relocated to NC in 2013 and performed with Martha Connerton’s Kinetic Works, 4thrightdance, and Caroline Calouche & Co (CC&Co). Alison began her trapeze training in Athens, GA at Canopy Studio, but obtained the majority of her professional experience as a main company dancer at CC&Co. She has since expanded her skillset to include aerial sling, silks, duo trapeze, and partner acrobatics. Alison teaches dance and aerial arts and has taught at the Charlotte Dance Festival, Carolina Aerial and Dance Exchange (CADE), and Charlotte Cirque and Dance Center. She currently teaches trapeze and aerial silks for Upside Aerial Arts & Fitness. Alison is also a recent graduate from UNC Charlotte with a Master of Public Health. She ultimately wants to combine her public health knowledge and passion for both health and the arts to work in arts-integrated public health outreach programming.

*Photo Credit: Arlynn Zachary