What Emerald City Trapeze Arts offers and who teaches there

Emerald City Trapeze Arts is a trapeze school in Seattle, Washington that teaches flying trapeze to adults and children. The school operates a permanent rig indoors, meaning students train year-round regardless of weather. Instructors at Emerald City are certified trapeze professionals who work with students one-on-one and in small group classes to teach the fundamentals of flying trapeze, from basic swings to more advanced tricks.

The school caters to people with no prior circus experience. Most students arrive having never been on a trapeze before. Classes are structured by skill level, so you train with others at roughly the same stage. The school also hosts special events, birthday parties, and corporate team-building sessions that include trapeze instruction.

Emerald City Trapeze Arts is located in the Georgetown neighborhood of Seattle. The facility includes the main training rig, a foam pit for safety, and changing areas. Because it is a private business rather than a city recreation program, pricing and class schedules are set by the school directly.

Key Takeaways

  • Emerald City Trapeze Arts teaches flying trapeze to beginners and experienced students in an indoor facility open year-round in Seattle.
  • Classes are organized by skill level, so you train with students at your own stage rather than in mixed-ability groups.
  • Instructors are certified professionals who work with small groups or one-on-one, depending on the class type you choose.
  • The school offers both regular classes and special events like birthday parties and corporate team-building sessions that include trapeze training.

How to find current class schedules and pricing

Emerald City Trapeze Arts publishes its class schedule and pricing on its own website. Class times, availability, and cost vary by session and skill level. The school typically offers classes at different times throughout the week to accommodate different schedules.

To learn what classes are currently running, visit the school's website directly or contact them by phone or email. They can tell you which classes have open spots, what the cost is for the session you are interested in, and what to bring or wear on your first day. Many trapeze schools ask students to wear comfortable clothing they can move in — typically athletic wear or clothes that allow full arm and leg movement.

Some schools offer introductory classes or trial sessions at a lower cost than regular classes. Ask whether Emerald City offers this option if you want to try trapeze before committing to a full session.

What to expect in your first class

Your first trapeze class will begin on the ground with instruction on basic safety and body position. An instructor will explain how the trapeze works, show you how to grip the bar, and walk you through the motions before you ever leave the platform. This ground training typically takes 15 to 30 minutes depending on the class size and your prior experience.

Once you move to the rig, an instructor will be with you at all times. You will climb a ladder to a small platform, grab the trapeze bar, and perform your first swing under the instructor's guidance. A trained catcher or spotter will be positioned to may support your safety throughout. Most first classes focus on the basic swing — learning to pump your legs, control your body position, and land safely back on the platform.

You will not learn complicated tricks in a single session. The goal of the first class is to get comfortable on the trapeze, understand how your body moves in the air, and build confidence. Most students feel nervous before their first swing and excited afterward.

Progression from beginner to intermediate skills

After you complete introductory classes, you can move into intermediate-level sessions where you learn more complex movements. These typically include tricks like the knee hang (where you hook your knees over the bar and hang upside down), the back flip, and learning to work with a catcher who will catch your hands or wrists mid-swing.

Progression depends on your comfort level and how often you train. Some students move through levels quickly; others spend several sessions at one level before advancing. Instructors assess your readiness based on your control, strength, and confidence rather than a fixed timeline.

The school can tell you what skills are taught at each level and what you should expect to learn before moving up. This helps you understand what you are working toward and what physical demands each stage involves.

Physical requirements and safety considerations

Flying trapeze requires a reasonable level of upper body and core strength, but you do not need to be an athlete or gymnast to start. Most people can learn the basics. The school will discuss any physical limitations or injuries with you before your first class so instructors know how to modify movements if needed.

Safety is built into every class. Students wear harnesses connected to safety lines, the foam pit below catches anyone who falls, and instructors are trained in spotting and rescue. The school follows industry safety standards for trapeze instruction. That said, trapeze is a physical activity with inherent risk, and you should be aware of that before you begin.

If you have a medical condition, recent injury, or physical limitation, tell the school before you sign up. They can let you know whether you can train and what modifications they can make.

What to bring and how to prepare

Wear comfortable athletic clothing that allows you to move freely — shorts or athletic pants and a t-shirt or tank top are typical. Avoid loose clothing that might get caught on the bar. Most schools ask you to remove jewelry and tie back long hair.

Bring water and a towel. Trapeze training is physically demanding and you will sweat. Some schools have water available; others ask you to bring your own. Arrive a few minutes early so you can check in, change if needed, and ask any last-minute questions.

You do not need to bring your own equipment. The school provides the trapeze, harness, and safety gear. If you continue training and want to purchase your own grips or other personal items, instructors can recommend what works best.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need any prior circus or gymnastics experience to start?

No. Emerald City Trapeze Arts teaches beginners with no background in circus arts or gymnastics. Classes are organized by skill level, so you train with others who are also learning the basics. Instructors teach from the ground up and do not assume you know anything about trapeze before your first class.

What age can children start trapeze?

Emerald City offers classes for both children and adults, though the minimum age varies by program. Contact the school directly to ask what age children can begin and whether there are separate youth classes or mixed-age sessions. Some schools have different class structures for younger children versus teenagers.

How much does a class cost?

Pricing varies depending on whether you take a single trial class, a multi-week session, or private instruction. The school sets its own rates. Visit their website or call them to see current pricing for the class type and session length you are interested in.

What if I am afraid of heights?

Many people who are nervous about heights still learn trapeze because you are harnessed and supported at all times. The platform is only about 20 to 25 feet high, and you are never unsupported. Talk to an instructor about your concerns before your first class — they can explain how the safety system works and may be able to help you work through the nervousness gradually.

Can I book a private lesson or group event?

Yes. Emerald City Trapeze Arts offers private instruction and hosts special events like birthday parties and corporate team-building sessions. Contact the school to discuss what you are looking for, availability, and pricing for private or group bookings.