Try a class at Trapeze U

Chelsea Schneider
The Arizona Republic
Apr. 9 2008 8:53 am

Seeing trapeze artists fly through the air is second nature for Kiersten Pettus, 8, of Chandler.

Her uncle owns a circus, so she's spent a good part of her summers under the tents.

As Kiersten prepared to take flight during a class at the new Trapeze U on a county island in Gilbert this week, the circus veteran didn't hesitate when instructor Dylan Phillips told her to climb up a ladder to a platform 23 feet from the ground.

Her ascent went as smoothly as when she was told to pull her knees up to the bar mid-swing and back flip to dismount.

"Once you first do it, it's scary, but when you swing it's not," Kiersten said.

The class was Kiersten's first time on the trapeze, but for some students, it was a repeat performance. Trapeze U opened a few weeks ago, but Phillips said he is already seeing familiar faces.

The freelance trapeze artist opened the business near Pecos and Lindsay roads to train those interested in flying, but also to have a place to practice. The facilities boast a full-size flying trapeze and training area.

Classes are held for aspiring trapeze artists 4 and older. Phillips also does corporate events and team-building exercises.

"Really, the biggest thing is to go out and have a good time," Phillips said. "In the beginning, everyone has a natural fear of being up there for the first time."

Students take turns being fitted into safety belts and listening as Phillips guides them through motions while they swing on the trapeze.

"It's like when you're a kid and used to swing on a vine over a lake," Mary Carroll, 46, of Gilbert, said.

Carroll and several family members were at Trapeze U for their second class. Carroll said they are known for their fearless antics, and wanted to learn trapeze because it was dangerous enough to suit their lifestyles.

"I'm a part of the family, so obviously I like being dangerous," Esther Keith, 12, said. "All I was thinking was that I hope I could do a back flip without making a fool of myself. Once you hit the floor, you feel heavy."

As for Kiersten, her stint on the trapeze left her with one request.

"Hey grandma," she said. "You should do it."

Trapeze U

Classes: 6-8 p.m. Monday, 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, 2-4 p.m. and 5-7 p.m. Sunday. Class schedule subject to change.

Cost: $65 for two-hour course. $20 initial sign-up fee waived through April.

Where: Trapeze U, 14407 E. Pecos Road.

Information: 888-872-7101, www.trapezeu.com .