Nicole’s Hair Hang Journey

Hello!
I’m a hair suspension artist from Canada. Originally self-taught, I pursued this discipline after seeing Cirque-du-Soleil’s “Volta” in 2017. When I sought out instructors in hair hang, There were very few coaches, none locally, and my inquiry was met with a lot of resistance. With piece-meal research findings in combination with trial and error, I arrived at a Hair Hang technique I could training and perform with. But this was not the end of my journey…

In 2020, I had the opportunity to learn the hair knot technique from Ingrid Esparenza (MX). in 2023, I had the opportunity to train one-on-one with Danila Bim (BR)in skill development and act creation. I have since connected with many hair hangers across the globe to consult on their process, technique and experiences.I have also researched much of its history (as much as there is documentation anyway).

Along the way, There have been gaps in my understanding of hair suspension. This inspired me to seek out varied expertise in rigging, physical therapy, strength training and hair science has contributed to tremendous growth and confidence in my practice. My unique journey has solidified my philosophies around practicing and teaching for saftey, long-term sustainability and health. I Believe in an approach to hair suspension that has a strong foundational understanding of the body and a commitment to stability and Balance. This proved effective when I performed 6-10 times per week with “Cirque Dreams: holidaze” on their pan american tour.

With the desire to see those interested in hair hang learn in a safe and supported environment, I created the Intro to Hair suspension program in 2023. the program fills in the gaps of typical hair hang instruction. With group workshops, private lessons and online opportunities, I hope to share this of this art form in a safe and responsible way to see community growth and connection, and discipline innovation.

today it’s been nearly 8 whole years of this practice and I continue to perform and teach hair suspension. it is a discipline that gives me a lot of freedom in movement and expression. It offers me great creative and theatrical possibilities as well - with my creation of circus shows like A Hen called Freedom and A Spider’s Tale. It continues to teach me about listening and responding to my body with great attention, and when i do, I am rewarded tremendously with the feeling of ultimate flight.