University of Maryland Gymkana Troupe History

aerial silks

best act: 2022

Silks is one of Gymkana’s newest acts. It was introduced in the 2012-2013 season by Ingrid Sobieski, a trouper with previous dance and aerial experience. She pitched the idea to the coaches, and because of the very little required space and the low price of an aerial silk to hang from the ceiling, they agreed. Although the aerial silks can be hung in many different ways, Gymkana uses a fabric folded at the top to create two flowing pieces. The origins of the aerial silks aren’t entirely clear, but the apparatus was likely developed for Cirque du Soleil in the 1990s. Despite its recent introduction to the troupe, the silks act is now a yearly staple in Gymkana performances. Troupers can perform both solo and doubles routines. The act includes climbs, wraps, drops, and dives, and has been performed by men and women alike.