Olivia Rasmussen, 16, of Orono, keeps in shape through performing and learning at Circus Juventas.
OPENING ACT
In fifth grade, my whole class came to a show at Circus Juventas (youth circus). They announced anyone could sign up, and five of us started doing it. I got to say, "I'm part of the circus." I thought that was really awesome.
LETTING GO
In that first class we did Spanish webs, juggling, tumbling, silks, low-wire and multiple and triple trapezes. I liked the aerial aspect. I used to be terrified of heights. The first time I was trying to fall off backwards from the bungee trapeze, I was just standing there. It was all in my head -- if I think too much, I can't let go. One of my friends said, "Think about jelly beans." I thought about it and it helped me relax and laugh, and I actually did let go that class.
THE ROUTINE
Now I'm here five days a week, usually from 4 or 5 p.m. until 9:15. My favorite classes are silks, triangle trapeze and aerial hammock. All the things I do are aerial.
SAFE LANDINGS
I haven't actually really fallen ever. Sometimes from a couple feet off the ground when I can let go and land on my feet. The Mexican cloud has swing lines; the silks have big crash pads. It's definitely easier for some people to just do it, people who like to try new things. I'm definitely more hesitant. I like to know exactly what's going on before I try something new. Usually people don't end up hurt; it's pretty safe here.
A NEW TRUST LEVEL
I definitely have lots of school friends, but I have made so many friends here it's really, really awesome. I think I've gained more than if I'd stayed in high school doing sports. I've met people from all over Minnesota, and the coaches are from all over the world. It's made me more outgoing; I can be myself around all these people. And I've learned trust. If someone's going to hold you up, you have to trust them to not drop you. I don't doubt them after they drop me once. It's part of learning.
THE BIG SHOW
I love performing. It still makes me kind of nervous, especially if it's an act I feel kind of scared to do. I especially love the sold-out shows because the crowd is louder. I'm a pretty smiley person and the costumes and glitter and music bring it together.
BETTER THAN SOCCER
I was diagnosed with Type I diabetes when I was 13. Being so physically active in circus has helped to keep my blood sugar low and in control. I probably won't do it professionally, because I'm pretty involved in school and I want to go to college. When I tell people I'm in the circus, they usually say, "Oh, my God, that is so awesome." They ask what I do, and it's fun to explain. If you say you're in soccer you don't get to explain.
SHEILA ELDRED
