FAQs
Can I have someone hanging from the roof?
You need the right type of venue for an aerial act. The venue needs to be built so that the roof won’t collapse when we hang people from it. This is called the ‘rating’. The spots on the roof where we connect the aerial apparatus is called the ‘rigging point’. So, we need rated points in order to hang someone safely. Artists can perform drops on their apparatus which puts a lot of strain on the point. That is why we like to work with a Safe Working Load of 1 tonne per point. The venue will be able to tell you the load ratings of the venue and should be able to provide an engineering report to confirm that. Other things to consider are height (most aerial acts will need minimum 5-6 meters), access to the roof and hiring a qualified rigger. ACA can assist you with all of these things.
Can I have an aerial act outside?
ACA has portable, single point aerial rigs for hire in Sydney and Byron Bay. They can be also be transported to locations near by. They are an easy and convenient way to have an aerial act anywhere with adequate height clearance. They do not require any ground weights or pegging. A portable flying trapeze rig is also available for hire from the Byron Bay headquarters.
Why is there no pricing on the website?
Each of our artists are independent contractors and their pricing can change depending on the nature of the event, the number of sets or performances they do, how busy their schedule is, the location of the event and more. ACA prides itself on providing the best value for money for every gig they service.
What is the difference between a roving artist and an act?
A roving artist performs interactive, improvised sets of skills whilst moving through a room or crowd. Sets range in duration from 20 mins to 1 hour depending on the skill and multiple sets can be booked. Roving is best used for large outdoor events, guest meet and greets or cocktail functions where the audience is standing (although roving around tables during dinner can also be effective).
An act is a choreographed performance (usually to music), performed on a stage or in a location where all the guests/audience can see. It is used as part of a show or as a ‘wow’ factor or to punctuate an event. A circus act typically runs for 5-10 mins and is designed to be the focus of the room at the time of performance.
Podium sets fall somewhere in between. The artist will improvise their skills but they are unable to move around the room. Only skills which can be performed in a confined space work on podiums. This could include skills such as hula hoops, juggling, hand stands, contortion or sword swallowing!
What do I need to consider when booking circus?
If you have decided that circus is the right fit for your show or event, then the main issue is space and safety. You must determine if the performance is suitable for the space that you have. Things to consider are ceiling height, floor surface and floor space. Each performance listed on the site includes technical specifications so use these as your guide when making your selection.
What insurance is needed?
All ACA artists hold their own current public liability insurance. Many also hold personal injury insurance.
What else do I need to consider when booking circus?
The true art of circus is that the artists make it look easy but don’t be fooled- it’s not! The tricks are often very risky and physically demanding and circus artists can only safely perform a trick a certain number of times or for a limited duration. Keep this in mind when you are devising your event or show idea.
What is involved with booking an artist from interstate?
Our artists love to travel and are always happy to fly in to perform at a special event. In addition to the performance fee, the client will be responsible for the artist’s flights, transfers, accommodation and meals. ACA uses MEAA Performers Collective Agreement Award rates.