Introduction to Aerials

Fri., Aug. 20, 7 p.m., $25, Philadelphia School of Circus Arts, 5900A Greene St., 215-849-1991, phillycircus.com.

by Stephen Rose

[ watch out for that tree! ]

If you've ever threatened to run away to the circus, you gotta understand that anyone can put on a funny nose and some face paint. So let the Philadelphia School of Circus Arts add another twist to your résumé: Learn how to death-defyingly swing through the air with the greatest of ease at the Circus School's new workshop on aerials. The school's professional staff will teach you to fly high during their one-hour beginner class. You'll learn and practice three different types of trapeze art: rope, fabric and static. This class is a one-time session so you can give each type a whirl before committing to a full schedule of classes. Working on the trapeze also promotes an intensive upper-body workout, so prepare to put your muscles and flexibility to the test. If this class gives you a promising glimpse of what life is like in Barnum & Bailey's big top, we won't hold it against you if you never return home.