Name: Melanie Sinclair
Years in the business: Three
What inspired you to become a Cirque performer?
I was a gymnast all of my life and I assumed that when I reached the end of my career that I would take a new route, but then I realized that the passion was still alive, so I started to look into Cirq. Being in the world of gymnastics my entire life I was exposed to a lot of entertainment opportunities. The Cirque du Soleil has always been around passing out applications and information to recruit gymnasts to join because gymnasts are very well-rounded due to the disciplines that the sport entails. I’ve always known about it and I knew a few girls who joined but I never expected that I would be one of them.
How difficult was your transition from gymnast to Cirque performer?
In my transition I did nine months of classes. We started off in creation which included Taekwondo, acting, dance and improv. The classes basically transition you to an artist from a gymnast and it allows your mind to step out of those barriers and walls that you have grown accustomed to throughout your gymnastics career. They really help you to expand and open your mind to reach capabilities that you didn’t know you had.
Why is the Amaluna production a must-see?
I’ve never worked with the circus before so this has been my first experience. For me, working with Amaluna has been awesome. I was given the opportunity to be a part of the creation; to help with the development and growth of a show, which a lot of people do not get a chance to do. So I am honored to have been a part of that. The company really takes care of us and the Amaluna production is unique because the show is 75 percent women and 25 percent guys, whereas most Cirque shows are predominantly men. To be in a show that has a large female presence has been dynamic. It definitely portrays a strong idea of women. We show strength, power and beauty in a way that no other show is doing right now. Our show has beautiful lights, costumes and sets. It’s truly another world once you step inside. It’s a magical and uplifting experience.
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