Oscar Kaufmann

What Are Aerial Straps?

What are aerial straps?

Aerial straps are two long fabric straps hanging from the ceiling or a rigging point. The performer wraps their hands and wrists into the straps and performs elements powered entirely by upper body strength — spins, balance holds, and transitions supported solely by the arms, with no additional bracing.

What is aerial acrobatics in general?

Aerial acrobatics refers to any acrobatic discipline performed above the stage from a rigging point, including straps, trapeze, aerial silk, and rings. What unites them all is the combination of strength, balance, and the visual impact of height.

How are aerial straps different from other aerial disciplines?

Unlike trapeze or aerial silk, where you can wrap or brace against fabric, straps rely almost entirely on grip technique and pure upper body strength. This makes it one of the most physically demanding forms of aerial acrobatics, since every movement is held directly through the wrists.

What does a professional straps act look like?

A strong straps act lives on contrast: fast, powerful spins alternate with slow, almost weightless holds. Music and lighting play a central role in building and releasing tension throughout the piece.

Who am I as a performer?

I’ve performed aerial straps internationally for over ten years, including at the Sydney Opera House, Wintergarten Berlin, and GOP Varieté productions. Alongside solo performances, I also offer creative development, from first concept through to a stage-ready act. [Learn more →]

15 +

Years performing internationally

1

Signature-Akt, One of a kind

30 +

Countries on stage

5

Distinct bookable acts

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Straps is one of the most strength-intensive aerial disciplines, since nearly every position is actively held through grip technique.

Trapeze has a fixed bar to rest on. Straps has no fixed structure at all — everything is held through the straps themselves.

Yes, I offer Workshops for beginners and advanced artists. [See workshops →]

A minimum 5-metre rigging point is recommended with 250 kg working load.

An act with many dynamic and strength based tricks might take years if not centuries to master. 

I perform internationally for galas, theatre, cruise ships, and corporate events. [Enquire now →]

Picture of Oscar Kaufmann

Oscar Kaufmann

Oscar Kaufmann is a Berlin-based Cyr wheel artist and aerialist who has been captivating audiences worldwide for over 15 years. Following his graduation with honors from the Berlin State Ballet and Circus School in 2014, he has performed in over 30 countries – including prestigious productions with Cirque du Soleil and at the Sydney Opera House. This vast international experience shapes his deep understanding of the stage. Today, he passionately shares his profound expertise and global network of artists.

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