Student of the Month

October 2014
Liz Huynh
What brought you to Bumbershoot Aerial Arts?
I loved going to circuses and shows and seeing aerial silks, I always wondered if I could do that. Then 3 years ago, while looking for a new hobby I ran across Bumbershoot. Needless to say, I completely fell in love and have been addicted to aerial since then.
What is your favorite apparatus to work on?
My favorite apparatus to work on is silks. It's so beautiful and you are able to manipulate the fabric to whatever you need it to be. Somehow people on silks always look so graceful and effortless! I am still trying to work on that.
What is your favorite thing about Bumbershoot?
I love the people at Bumbershoot. The teachers are amazing and extremely supportive and want you to grow and learn. The people you meet at Bumbershoot basically become a family for you. I have made some lifelong friends at Bumbershoot and love them to pieces.
What kinds of things do you do when you aren’t hanging in the air?
Ha, I am such an un-interesting person outside of Bumbershoot. If I'm not working as a therapist for my elementary school, then I am playing with my little puppy, reading, talking to my family back home, or having some awesome dinner parties with friends :)
When you are having a tough day in class, what do you tell yourself?
It's okay to not get things right away and get frustrated. Sometimes you just need to walk away from it and come back when you have a better attitude. Then you can see things in a new light and try again. But don't ever give up!
Do you have a favorite memory from class or performing?
That is way too hard to pin down, because I have several. I love doing drops, they are such an adrenaline rush. I remember my first ever Superman Drop; Becky was my teacher. I was all wrapped up and ready for it, I asked Becky what do I do next, and she said open your hips and you'll drop. I freaked out thinking I was going to fall out of it and become a mess on the ground. Becky saw my face reassured me that I was secured, she also said that if I'm not ready I can also walk myself down from it. I was up there for a good five minutes psyching myself up for it, and when I finally did it - it was such a thrill! I couldn't wait to go back up and do the next drop. Now I am a drop junkie!!!

My other favorite moment is when you realize that the people in your class or hang out at Bumbershoot with have become your friends and family. It's like "Hey do you want to hang out outside of Bumbershoot?" and I'm like "Wait me?! You want to hang out with me outside of the studio? Wow, I feel so special!" It is such a great feeling!
What advice would you give to people about Showcase?
You will be fabulous no matter what, don't stress out too much about it! Also, the lights are so bright, that you can barely see the audience anyways, so don't be too nervous! And lastly, there is no better place to perform than at showcase where the audience and your coaches and peers are incredibly supportive.
What classes are you taking next session?
I will be taking Silks 5.
What is your philosophy of aerial and life?
Have fun! I love learning new things in class, but sometimes I get so flustered that I forget the reason why I'm at Bumbershoot in the first place. Of course it is important to get the material, but also remember to have fun with it. Put your own personal style and pizazz into it. And don't be so serious in life. We can all benefit from laughing, smiling, and hugging a little more, and do with a lot less stress.
Past Students of the Month