An aerial circus-theatre show about sisterhood, and the mutual support that takes place when we get together, looking into our layers and foundations, and celebrating where we come from.

On the Shoulders is a new outdoor aerial circus production celebrating the women (cis, genderqueer and trans) who have inspired, supported and literally lifted us up. It explores the collective strength of women, community, and intergenerational connection. It delves into the ways we hold and caretake each other’s diverse stories, and the universality of our shared challenges and intersectional experiences of marginalisation.

The show will blend aerial, circus, dance, puppetry, verbatim theatre, and live music. It incorporates the stories of women involved in our collaborative residencies and workshops, along with a community performance element. The professional cast of three multi-skilled female/non-binary performers will creatively construct a giant female puppet on stage throughout the performance, which will become strong enough to carry them for aerial performance.

On The Shoulders is the first show written & directed by Shaena Brandel.