Hello, my loves! I hope this finds everyone feeling a bit better than before, and that last week’s “Look” brought a glimmer of meaning, usable in the tougher moments. Though I still feel a bit like a succubus on legs, I’m endeavoring to move through.
As promised, this week we return to our usual programming, and welcome to our column’s stage the talented performer and trapeze artist Sierra Camille.
Camille grew up “talking too loud and making as much noise as possible” in Santa Rosa, exploring the world of dance, aerial silks, comedy and clowning. In short, she was being a one-woman-circus.
Following her passion led Camille to co-found Levity Aerial Troupe and Skytopia Aerial Arts. Now based in Oakland, she offers classes on character building (who are you as a performer?), conditioning, choreography and performance technique, and more.
Camille is currently on the road, touring the West Coast with Circus Nonsense. She took a moment from her wild life on the road to answer a few of my questions.
JV: How was growing up in Santa Rosa?
SC: I feel really lucky to have gone to high school in Santa Rosa. Being in Artquest at Santa Rosa High School was really formative for me. Being surrounded by a bunch of other weirdo art kids was one of the first times I really felt like I fit in anywhere.
JV: What do you love most about aerial silks?
SC: Of course I love the feeling of flying on silks, but also circus and training aerial has given me such a wonderful relationship to my body and what I’m capable of. Being really strong is incredibly fun and inspiring.
JV: Do you do circus performances full time?
SC: I’m a full time circus performer. I freelance for different circus companies, and I’m currently setting up my own production company, so I can create ensemble-based aerial theater and circus shows with other performers. Our first show will be coming next spring. I’ve been able to chase this dream thanks to my “Patron Camilleons,” who support me on Patreon.
There you have the scoop, my dears! She’s a sight to behold. So, once the Oakland-based aerial queen is back in the Bay Area, stay tuned for a performance near you. To learn more about Sierra Camille, visit www.sierracamille.com.
—Jane
