A Cyr Wheel is a large open metal ring made of steel or aluminium, in which a performer stands and uses body weight alone to make the wheel roll, spin, and tilt. Unlike the classic German Wheel, which has two parallel rings, the Cyr Wheel has only one, making the movement more fluid but also considerably harder to control.
Pronunciation: Cyr Wheel is pronounced like the English word “seer”, (/sɪər/) named after its creator, Daniel Cyr.
How is a Cyr Wheel built?
The ring is a curved tube of steel or aluminium, 3–5 cm in diameter for a secure grip, usually coated in rubber or epoxy resin to prevent slipping on stage. Size is fitted individually to the performer, typically 10–20 cm larger in diameter than their height. Despite its apparent lightness, the wheel weighs between 10 and 20 kg. That contrast between visible lightness and actual weight is part of what makes the discipline so compelling to watch.
What’s the difference from a German Wheel?
A German Wheel has two parallel rings; the Cyr Wheel has just one. That makes it less stable and harder to control, with balance and body tension deciding every movement.
Cyr is the surname of Daniel Cyr, the artist who brought the apparatus back to the stage in 2003.
Like the English word “seer” (/sɪər/).
Yes, I run Cyr Wheel workshops in Berlin for beginners and advanced students. [See workshops →]
No, normally not. Just like a normal cartwheel we open our fingers when we go down.
A sporty person can learn a “walz” the basic spinn usually in 2-3 months. A whole act with loads of tricks takes years to master.
You will need minimum 5×5 meters of space. The floor should be level, firm and stable. Carpeted floors, large gaps or a noticeable slope are unsuitable. Stage flooring, parquet or dance floors all work well.
I perform internationally for galas, TV productions, theatre, and corporate events. [Enquire now →]