From the Stage to the Air
Dancing with "Silks", Hoops, and Hammocks
Using full body power and strength, the aerial dancer launches against traditional forces and experiences the creative possibilities of the vertical realm. Combining a variety of apparatus, such as suspended fabrics, hoops, rings, swings, and ropes, the dancer learns to climb, roll, extend and, contract while developing courage, expression, lightning reflexes, and unparalleled strength.
Mission Statement
Florida Aerial Dance & Circus Arts LLC provides the highest standard of instruction to engage and motivate toward strength, stability and co-ordination. Through a technical syllabus, students develop discipline, respect, confidence, self-esteem and a standard of excellence that will carry over into other aspects of their lives.
Our Instructors
MARIA-ELENA MARSO: started dancing in September 1974 and has never stopped. Her performance career, spanning four decades and six continents, includes Regional Ballet Companies, Dinner Theater, Summer Stock, Repertory Theater, European Tours, Cunard Cruise Lines, and Walt Disney World Productions: Tokyo, Japan. Her unique perspective of dance instruction blends sound biomechanical principles with traditional dance progressions - this safeguards the individual’s joint ranges, enabling them to develop muscular integrity, while ensuring longevity. Maria-Elena has taught classes in Performing Arts for over 30 years. She has taught Circus Arts, Musical Theater, Acting, Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Pointe, Modern, Swing, Salsa, and Tango to hundreds of students in Florida, New York, Delaware, and California. She holds certifications in Pilates and Yoga and continues to update her education in Bio-Mechanics and Anatomy. She is a member of AYCO/ACE and has been accepted into the prestigious Nimble Arts Teacher Certification Program at New England Center for Circus Arts (NECCA).
BRENT DURHAM: has been coaching gymnastics for nearly 11 years and is the head coach of the competitive boys team of Boundless Gymnastics in Stuart. With a background in Gymnastics and Martial Arts, Brent began his circus training in 2018, and has since created many acts for solo and duet performers. He has completed Aerial Straps Teacher Training in August of 2021 and Level 2 Teacher Training in 2022.
MOLLY RAINIS: Assistant teacher, Molly is in her tenth year of training at FADCA. She has had extensive training in classical dance and musical theater and brings a fresh expression to creative team.
PAIGE WILLIAMS: Assistant Teacher, Paige is in her tenth year of training at FADCA. Paige exemplifies the art of the Cirque "Porter". The one who "carries" another in the air or on the ground. The unsung hero of the group, the porter bravery and strength is the reason for the success of the act. Paige Williams quite, supportive attention has made her a beloved teacher at FADCA.
