Aerial Silks
Also known as: Tissu, Aerial tissu, Aerial fabric, Aerial ribbons
History & Cultural Context
Aerial silks (tissu) is performed on two lengths of fabric suspended from a high rigging point. The performer climbs, wraps the fabric around the body to create poses and 'locks,' and executes dramatic 'drops' that unwind the silk in a controlled fall. It rose to prominence in the 1990s within contemporary circus and is among the most popular studio aerial disciplines. Choreography weaves continuous, music-led movement with apparatus skill, demanding significant grip, core, and upper-body strength alongside dance line.
Cultural Significance
A signature contemporary-circus and studio aerial discipline; widely seen in shows, events, and music videos.
Characteristic Movement & Technique
Climbs, wraps, poses, inversions, and controlled drops on suspended fabric.
Partnering Dynamics
Usually solo; doubles silks exists.
Competitive Context
Showcased in circus and aerial competitions/showcases rather than a single governing sport.
Regional Variations
Global studio practice; rooted in European contemporary circus.
Common Misconceptions
The dramatic 'drops' are pre-wrapped, controlled releases of the fabric—not free falls or improvised danger.
Dance Lineage
Track Your Aerial Silks Progress
Practice Aerial Silks figures between lessons with Figure Focus — step-by-step breakdowns, floor diagrams, and progress tracking. Free to use.
Sources & Further Reading
Cultural & Historical Context
Aerial Silks emerged from France / contemporary circus during the 1990s—present day. Understanding the cultural roots, musical traditions, and social circumstances of this era enriches appreciation for the dance's characteristics and significance.
Primary Source Documents
The Library of Dance contains public-domain primary sources for dance history. Copyrighted modern syllabi are indexed with purchase links to their respective copyright owners. Search by dance name or codifier to discover primary source documents.
Last reviewed: June 2026 — This dance profile synthesizes historical research, cultural documentation, and contemporary practice knowledge to provide authoritative context.
Related Dances
More in Aerial Dance
Aerial Lyra (Hoop)
Dance and poses performed on and around a suspended steel hoop, spinning or static, blending circus skill with choreographed movement.
Aerial Hammock (Sling)
A loop of fabric (both ends rigged together) forming a hammock/sling that cradles the body for poses, rolls, and gentler aerial dance.
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