Key Concepts
- Aerialist performance
- Lyra (aerial hoop)
- The House of Dancing Water show
- Rope rescue training
- Physical transformation and strength training
- Passion vs. conventional career paths
- Risk-taking and pursuing unconventional dreams
Megan's Journey to Becoming an Aerialist
Initial Fear and Rapid Adaptation
Megan, a 24-year-old Singaporean, recounts her initial apprehension upon securing an aerialist contract for The House of Dancing Water in Macau. Despite limited prior experience (only one aerial show at a height of two meters), she quickly adapted to performing daily at heights of 20 meters.
The House of Dancing Water Show
The House of Dancing Water is described as a water-based circus show combining acrobatics, water effects, and special lighting. Megan's primary role involves lyra acts (performing on a circular hoop), dancing, and aerial acrobatics.
Rope Rescue Training and Overcoming Fear
A crucial part of the training involved learning rope rescue techniques. This included climbing down a rope from a height of 15 meters in case of winch or rigging system failure. Megan initially found this terrifying, experiencing sweaty palms, but gradually became accustomed to the height through repeated practice.
Being the Only Singaporean in the Cast
Megan highlights the initial stress of joining a WhatsApp group with cast members from all over the world, realizing she was the only Singaporean (+65 country code). However, she found the experience to be ultimately positive.
Accidental Discovery of Aerialism
Megan's path to becoming an aerialist was unplanned. She was preparing for a corporate job after completing her degree when she saw a casting call for The House of Dancing Water on Instagram. Having watched the show in 2014 and 2016, and even expressing a desire to be a "water princess" as a child, she decided to try her luck.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
Upon receiving the offer, Megan's heart immediately said yes, but she still had to consider the implications of abandoning her planned career path. She created a pros and cons list and discussed the decision with her friends and family, who were surprised by her unconventional career choice. Her mother was initially concerned about the safety risks but became supportive after realizing Megan's strong desire to pursue this opportunity.
Physical Transformation and Strength
Megan emphasizes that she is still learning what it takes to be an aerialist, as it is relatively new to her, having started dancing at the age of five. The transition from a sedentary university lifestyle to a physically demanding job required significant physical transformation. She notes that she has become more muscular and leaner due to the daily performances. She even shows off her calluses as a physical sign of her strength training.
Emotional Connection with the Audience
Despite being immersed in the show from start to finish, Megan's favorite part is the curtain call. She finds it emotional to see the audience's appreciation and feel their love.
Redefining Success and Taking Risks
Megan challenges the conventional Singaporean metrics of success, such as career and academic achievements. She encourages viewers to find their passion and pursue it wholeheartedly if it is a viable career path. She concludes by urging viewers to take risks in their lives.
Synthesis/Conclusion
Megan's story is one of unexpected opportunity, overcoming fear, and pursuing passion over conventional expectations. She highlights the importance of taking risks, embracing physical challenges, and finding fulfillment in a non-traditional career path. Her journey from a corporate-bound graduate to a professional aerialist serves as an inspiration to redefine success and pursue one's dreams.
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