"Christie’s trampoline classes and Hal’s trapeze classes have given me so much! I learned body awareness and techniques to manage stress and fear. I conquered tricks I could have never imagined doing at all let alone well. I felt inspired to get stronger and work harder because I felt that both of them believed I could, despite having no athletic background. These classes have helped me believe in myself and have been a useful outlet for anxiety. I’m very grateful for both of them."

— Parade S.

"I met Stuart at Circus Warehouse, and I always looked forward to his flying trapeze classes (even though I'm primarily an aerialist). They were always a wonderfully supportive environment, fun and educational!! I miss those classes a lot since I haven't had time to go to a place that has flying trapeze AND aerial in the same place."

— Heather M.

"I met Stuart and Darcy at summer camp where they not only introduced me to the joy of flying but also got me to fall in love with doing trapeze, working the rig, all of it! They were such amazing, kind and patient teachers and taught me so much in the short time we had. And while I will always love flying and will do it every chance I get, it will never be quite the same without them!"

— Laura B.

"I’ve been training with Stuart, Hal, Darcy, and Chioma for a couple of years now, and they’re honestly amazing. Super talented, super supportive, and just really fun to be around. They’ve helped me level up my trapeze skills in a big way, and I always leave class feeling inspired. I love what they’re building with this new nonprofit—it’s such a cool mission, and I’m so glad to be a small part of it. Great people, great vibes, and great coaching."

— Samantha L.

"Darcy is one of my go-to coaches for flying trapeze and trampoline. She’s always patient, encouraging, and has a great sense of humor that makes every class feel welcoming. I really appreciate how she takes the time to break things down and help me feel more confident trying new skills. I can always count on her to be patient, fun, and to yell out something funny before I take off. Training with her has been one of the highlights of my circus experience. Circus has become an addictive and joyful part of my life, and I’m so grateful for coaches like her who keep me coming back."

— Tori C.

“Hal, Darcy and Stuart are the most trustworthy teachers in the game. They match your level of investment in your work tenfold. When I first started training, Hal and Darcy were instrumental in encouraging me to continue even when I was frustrated and doubtful of my work. They are generous with their time in a way I’ve never seen before. I am so grateful to the CAI team.”

— Marissa R.

"Since moving to New York 3.5 years ago, the aerial circus community has become one of the most meaningful parts of my life—and the CAI founding team has been at the roots of that experience. Through circus, I’ve found some of my closest friends and a deep sense of empowerment, both mentally and physically.

I’ve never been able to stick with a traditional fitness routine, but circus changed everything. It’s become something I can’t imagine my life without. It challenges me, fulfills me, and makes me feel strong in ways I never expected. Who would’ve guessed that in my mid 30s I’d be in the best shape of my life, not only physically but also mentally.

Hal, Stuart, and Darcy played a huge role in the start of this aerial journey in NYC. Their coaching has helped me discover and develop so many skills, and their encouragement has pushed me while always making me feel safe and supported in flying trapeze. Hal supported me on my very first flight in NYC—trying a new rig can always feel a little anxious. I’ll never forget that evening as he supported me through my first take off. Since then, he’s helped me become a stronger flyer through several flying workshop series.

It was through this community that I met Darcy, with whom I share a personal love for the Jonas Brothers. I’m grateful to have met, built this friendship with her, and shared so many magical Jonas moments with her.

Thanks to this community initially of just flying trapeze, I also found my passion for aerial hoop, which has become my main apparatus and creative outlet over the last 3 years. I’ve come such a long way on this journey and I can’t wait to continue growing with the introduction of CAI into the my next steps."

— Tiffany N.