The world is made up of all sorts of people. Some of us can hardly touch our toes. Others can touch their toes with their nose. They are called contortionists, and those—the few, the proud, the astonishingly flexible—are the subjects of today’s article. Bending over backwards just took on a new meaning.
How to be a contortionist, explained
Contortionists are circus performers trained to be hypermobile and flexible. They’re the ones stretching their bodies in ways that’ll leave you scratching your head—after all, that’s what they train for. They can bend their limbs this way and that, contorting their bodies into pretzel-like shapes. Witnessing such a range of motion is remarkable and not to be missed.
Though these highly pliant people often find work in the circus as acrobats, it’s not surprising to see a contortionist working as a street performer or professional dancer. The skills may not be broadly transferable, but it’s good work if you can get it.
The role of the contortionist in performing arts
In a circus performance, just as in other types of performing arts, the contortionist’s role is to inspire awe by showcasing their extreme flexibility and body control. Typically, they’ll bend and twist their bodies in unusual and reality-defying ways, leaving audiences catching their breaths and wondering how they can hold such perplexing poses and positions.
Contortionists are typically mainstays of circus performances, variety shows, dance recitals, music videos, plays and more. They enjoy any stage that lets them flex (pun intended) their amazing abilities. They might perform their acts solo, or they may be one dancer that’s part of a larger group.
Either way, contortionists are head-turners. They use their rubbery bodies to challenge the audience’s notion and understanding of what the human body can achieve. Contortion performances can be at once graceful, dramatic, humorous, and even grotesque, challenging the concept of what a normal range of motion looks like, telling compelling stories through motion.
Where did contortionism originate?
Just watching a contortionist perform is enough to leave you breathless. You might wonder who was the first person to master the front bend? How did they discover they could easily bend forwards or backwards? In this section, we’ll explore these questions and more.
A brief history of contortionism
The art of contortion originated in China and Mongolia, two regions still home to some of the world’s most skilled and flexible performers. The art form was first showcased in traditional Buddhist Tsam dances and in some Mongolian plays and productions. In its early days, contortionism was regarded more as an artistic expression than an acrobatic feat.
The cultures with the most significant influence on contortion
Even today, much of what we know about contortionism stems from the rich traditions of Chinese and Mongolian performers. Historically, contortionism was considered a form of traditional art intended to celebrate the marvel that is the human body. Mongolia, in particular, is widely regarded as the world capital of contortionism. Its origins can be traced back to a local folk dance called Biyelgee. In this type of performance, dancers kneeled and bent backwards until their upper backs would graze the floor.
The evolution of contortionism in modern times
From its origins in the East to today’s modern circus. Nowadays, contemporary contortionists come from all corners of the globe, though performers from China and Mongolia still carry on their centuries-long tradition.
Though every contortion performance is, in its own way, a nod to its Eastern roots, contortionism today has entered a new era. Today, different types of contortionists emerged, a blend of the traditional and contemporary—an art form that dazzles and captivates audiences worldwide.
What are the different types of contortion performances?
In a typical circus performance, you might encounter a few different types of contortion performances. Here are some of the more famous examples.
Back-bending contortion
Many consider back-bending contortion one of the most common—and visually striking—forms of contortion. It’s the type of performance that may leave you questioning your definition of physical flexibility as you admire how they’re able to arch their backs in such an exaggerated fashion. Sometimes, when performing back-bending feats, contortionsts can even curve themselves into a circle or touch their feet to their head.
Some examples of back-bending poses might include:
- Kneeling back bend
- Bridge with ankle catch
- Chest stand with straight legs and feet on the floor
These kinds of moves demonstrate the spinal flexibility of the human body and the strength of our back, core, and leg muscles all at once.
Front-bending contortion
Front-bending poses tend to focus on the flexibility of the front of the body with moves that require strength of the spine, hips, and legs. That might include any poses that require the contortionist to bend forward to touch their toes, place their head between their legs, or—for the most advanced performers—fold their bodies entirely in half.
Twisting contortion
Twisting contortion poses are usually performed by the most advanced contortionists in the trade. It demands that the body bend, contort, and twist itself into various extreme positions. This type of performance showcases the rotational capacity and flexibility of the spine.
When you’re witnessing a performance that involves twisting contortion poses, you might think you’re seeing things. But you’re not.
Arm-bending contortion
Arm-bending contortion defies expectations while demonstrating the sheer strength of a human’s upper body—particularly arms and shoulders.
With these types of performances, you might witness a contortionist bend their arms as though they’re double-joined. Backward, forward, and at sharp or unlikely angles, they can somehow support their entire body weight despite holding some unlikely poses.
So, how does one become a contortionist, anyway?
Many kids dream of becoming firefighters, astronauts, veterinarians, and even influencers. Then there are those with daring dreams—visions of performing daunting feats high above crowds, swinging from the rafters, and pulling off gravity-defying stunts to thunderous applause. If your child dreams of a career in the performing arts, like a circus, this next section touches on what it takes to get them there.
How to train to be a contortionist
So, how can you become a contortionist when you’re not a flexible person? Bad news: If physical flexibility isn’t listed as a top skill on your resumé, then unfortunately, becoming a contortionist may not be the right career path for you. Because in this line of work, flexibility is everything. In fact, it’s the single-most important tool in a contortionist’s toolbox. Without that, you can probably kiss your career as a contortionist goodbye.
Though some degree of flexibility is partially genetic, we’ve got some good news for would-be contortionists: it’s a technique that can be developed with loads of training and practice.
Training and practice: The path to becoming a contortionist
About that training and practice. Many performing arts schools offer specialized classes in contortion. If you’re looking into becoming a contortionist, keep in mind that contortion training with an experienced professional is essential for honing your craft. Ultimately, practicing regularly—daily, and for extended hours—are vital when it comes to developing the strength, control, and flexibility needed to become a career contortionist. If you’re wondering how to become a contortionist at home, unfortunately, there’s no quick how-to guide. Like so many athletic pursuits, mastering it demands ample time and practice. But it’s well worth the effort.
Professional guidance in contortion training
Training under a seasoned expert provides technical skills and insights into the nuances of the art, helping you navigate the path to becoming a successful contortionist. It’s probably one of the most valuable resources a budding contortionist can have. Their guidance can offer you insights into how to move your body so as to avoid injury. There’s no one more qualified to dish out advice on the craft then someone who’s done it for years themselves.
Where can I experience a contortion performance?
Want to know where you can see contortionism performed? Whether you're a fan of the circus or looking for something more niche—maybe a local theatre or a burlesque show—contortionism is a technique woven into various types of performances. Here, we’ll guide you through some of the best places to experience these incredible displays of flexibility and skill.
Places and types of contortion shows
From intimate theaters, private parties, film industry, to some of the world’s biggest stages—and under our Big Top, too—contortionists are everywhere. You might encounter contortionists as part of a variety show, say, or as a highlight in a dance or acrobatic performance. No matter how much or little contortionism you’ll get to see at your next outing, one thing’s for sure, you’ll be amazed by this performance art.
Circus festivals across the globe
For any true contortion enthusiast who just can’t get enough of contortionism and various other circus disciplines, you’ll be delighted to know there are a number of festivals dedicated to the art of circus performance. These global festivals bring top performers together, showcasing the best acts in the world, including contortionists. Here are a few of the more popular festivals:
- The Berlin Circus Festival: Considered one of the world’s foremost festivals celebrating the circus arts, the Berlin Circus Festival is held annually in August. Attending gives you a front-row seat to up-and-coming circus performers and participate in workshops—so you can learn a skill or two while there.
- The St. John’s International Circus Festival: Take it from us, September is an excellent time to visit Newfoundland, a scenic province in the Canadian Atlantic. While there, check out the St. John’s International Circus Festival, a lively celebration of all things circus!
- The Festival Mondial du Cirque de Demain: France’s premier circus festival started back in 1977 and is often credited for bringing some of the biggest names in the circus to the mainstream. It’s widely considered to be a birthplace of new concepts and techniques—a must-attend for any diehard circus fanatics.
- Montréal Complèment Cirque: Held in our hometown of Montreal, Canada, a festival like Montréal Complèment Cirque is a must-attend for any circus and contortionist enthusiasts out there. For over 10 days, circus acts take over the city’s streets, parks, and sidewalks. In Montreal, expect to find a circus stage anywhere you look.
- The Edinburgh Festival Fringe: If you’re looking to catch tons of live circus performances, don’t skip Scotland. The country is home to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe where, along with a host of other great types of performances, attendees can catch contortionists bending, folding, and flexing their technique.
Of course, this is just a sample of some of the incredible festivals that take place in the world. But the circus—and circus acts—are everywhere you look.
Famous contortion performers throughout history
Historical contortionists
Throughout history, contortionists have helped set the stage for future generations of performers, all thanks to their trailblazing and extraordinary abilities. Whether in travelling circuses or vaudeville shows, they are the ones who leave a legacy behind that continues to spawn new contortionist performances.
Examples of contortionist who’ve made a name for themselves
You might not see them splashed across TMZ or featured on your favourite celebrity gossip blog, but in the circus and performing arts world, these amazing contortion performers are the big names who’ve left a mark on the contemporary circus.
- Daniel Browning Smith: Daniel Browning Smith also goes by the nickname “Rubberboy,” (no explanation needed there). Daniel Browning Smith first got into contortionism as a young child when he discovered he had the unexpected ability to perform the splits purely by fluke. He later went to circus school and the rest is history. Since honing his craft, Daniel has had small parts in movies, including Men in Black II and has worked as a stuntman. He also holds seven Guiness Book of World Records to his name.
- Sofie Dossi: Sofie Dossi first became a household name after appearing on an episode of America’s Got Talent in 2016. Since first appearing on the show, she’s since made a name for herself and has also been seen on The Ellen Show, Fox Sports, and many other TV appearances. Today, Sofie keeps her 9.7 million fans up to date on her YouTube channel. Check it out if you’re looking for videos on how to become a self-taught contortionist, extreme yoga, and more.
- Olga Pikhienko: Hailing from Russia, Olga is a famous contortionist who appeared in numerous Cirque du Soleil performances throughout the mid-nineties and early-to-mid aughts. Nowadays, she works independently, performing in special events, making TV appearances, and beyond.
- The Ross Sisters: Sometimes credited for bringing contortionism to mainstream North America, the Ross sisters—Betsy Ann, Vicki, and Dixie—performed under the stage names of Aggie, Maggie, and Elmira. The three sisters were each capable contortionists in their own right, and performed together, weaving body-bending moves into their song-and-dance numbers.
Famous contortion acts
Over the years, some contortion acts have reached legendary status—including the acts that perform with Cirque du Soleil. One example that leaps to mind is Aleksei Goloborodko. Aleksei is touted as one of the world’s most flexible people. These days, he can be seen gracing the stages of our touring show Luzia, in which he steals the show as a solo contortionist. Audiences across the world are moved by contortion performances like Aleksei’s—a truly stunning display of the modern circus.
The art and skill of a contortionist
Maybe you’re a natural. Or maybe you’ve trained your entire life for this. No matter what, there’s no one quick and easy solution to becoming a contortionist.
Contortionism, a craft that demands perseverance
Becoming a contortionist requires more than natural flexibility; it demands years of rigorous training, dedication, and perseverance. It should be said contortion skills can be developed over time, but if you’re genetically gifted in the flexibility department, things may come a little easier for you.
Contortionists start their journey at a young age, often undergoing intense practice sessions to develop the necessary strength, control, and precision. The path to mastery is long and challenging, but the result is a performance that is profound, artistic, and awe-inspiring.
Contortionism: Bending bodies, blowing minds
The aesthetics of a contortion performance have a way of leaving you breathless. Contortion is not merely a physical feat; it’s a beautiful, graceful, and pensive art form. The aesthetics of a contortion performance lie in the fluidity of the movements, the harmony between muscle strength and flexibility, and the emotional impact it has on the audience. Whether performed in a traditional circus or a modern stage production, contortion continues to be a powerful means of expression, celebrating the extraordinary capabilities of the human body.
Want to see contortion acts unfold (and fold) on Cirque du Soleil stages near you? Buy tickets here..