Training Success Stories

Trapeze Las Vegas has the pleasure of working with countless tourists each year looking for a very Vegas experience, or to check something off their bucket list. In addition to those who are just swinging through – we get to work with a wide range of students – both recreationally and those who are working to achieve the dream of being a professional circus performer.  Here we would like to highlight some of our students and coaches whose training took place at TLV during the early stages of their professional development. Whether this is the spot they first climbed a silk – or the last place they swung out of lines before catching on with a show . . .we are proud of our place in their journey!

Lexi Eakin

Meet Lexi –

Lexi came to Trapeze Las Vegas with an extensive background in high level gymnastics and even before finishing high school she was on her way to the big time. . .or should we say BIG TOP!Read Lexi's Story

She is a valuable member of the Aerial Angels and picked up excellent performance experience, working all around town at various charitable functions, corporate events and shows right here at the TLV Circus Lot. Lexi is also one of the original members of the recently debuted Flying Troupe based at TLV   – The Flying Aces.

When the Circus Fans of America Organization came for a private show, Lexi wowed this knowledgeable audience and was featured in their publication White Tops. Lexi specializes in flying trapeze, silks, handstands, cradle and most recently teeterboard. With her eyes on the future she hopes to learn Russian Swing soon.

She quickly began racking up professional credits including touring with the Jordan World Circus, Aerial Angel gigs and entertaining at private functions around town.

We caught up with Lexi (between coming out of the net and climbing to the platform) to ask a few questions:

What is something you have accomplished that surprised you?

“Landing a paid gig within the first two years of circus training, I was inspired and knew that this is what I wanted to do with my future.”

What is your next goal in the circus world?

“Short term goal is working to improve as a character performer, working with acting and dance to help develop the character or theme for the audience and flex my creative muscles a bit more.”

Long term goal would be to make my full-time career as performer in either a modern production style show or a traditional three ring travelling circus.

What is unique about training at Trapeze Las Vegas?

“Training at TLV she feels like it is team effort between the athlete and the coaches to accomplish what we are trying to do. There is a lot of collaboration in putting together new acts, and I enjoy working with TLV coaches and fellow students. The coaches really engage with me, and I really appreciate that.”

What is your most memorable performance you have done so far?

“Probably one of the two first flying trapeze performances. The butterflies in my stomach were definitely there, then the rush of adrenaline and excitement when the tricks had been completed successfully. I knew this is what I wanted to do!”

What’s next?

“I’m wrapping up high school now and graduate in a few short months. Then looking for a full-time performance job.”

Nicole Weiss

Life is a Circus is a common phrase, but for Miss Nicole Taylor Weiss it is . . .literally. When the Weiss family came off the road and put down stakes in Las Vegas, it was the first time that 19-year-old Nicole had NOT lived on the road!…Read Nicole's Story

Daughter of a world-famous human cannonball and gorgeous showgirl, she knew she was destined to be a performer and was well on her way as a hula hoop artist. However, she had always been interested in aerial arts. Nicole had been told no, that won’t work for you so many times. That all changed when she and her brother Max (more on him in a future feature) wandered into Trapeze Las Vegas. Little did they know that this “pit stop” would propel them both on a new circus path.

We caught up with Nicole in between sets on her current gig at Busch Gardens, let’s get to know a little more about her journey :

Tell us a little about your experience with Trapeze Las Vegas.

“When I first came to TLV they made me feel welcomed and supported right away! I had never done aerial at all. My very first class was static trapeze, I then went on to take lyra and even did duo trapeze and duo straps with my brother.

While taking static trapeze, my coach found my strengths and really focused on those while encouraging me all along the way. I was the oldest and newest of all the students. I was SO impressed with some of the younger girls and I even learned a thing or two from them!”

When did you perform your first aerial act?

“A few months after starting at TLV I had the opportunity to perform static trapeze in a local theatre in Vegas. Not long after I was signed for my first professional aerial contract – doing a unique aerial apparatus in the Busch Gardens Theme Park theatre show. For that. . . I give all the credit to Trapeze Las Vegas, their amazing coaches pushed me out of my comfort zone and showed me that I CAN do anything. Since then, I have worked pretty much continuously either in the air, or with my hoops.”

Are than any lessons (aside from the actual tricks) that you learned while in Las Vegas that have stuck with you?

“At Trapeze Las Vegas, I was taught right away that no matter what shape or age you are, you can do anything you put your mind to. They teach their students to work hard, perform with passion and to always encourage one another. I will always be thankful that I found Trapeze Las Vegas and am a part of their community. No matter where I am, I love seeing the posts of their aspiring artists, and will always be cheering for TLV and the Aerial Angels.”

What comes next for you?

“I love performing and that will always be a part of my life no matter where I go. While I am currently still performing, I am also pursuing a career as a make up artist. (Still using the step out of my comfort zone lessons!). I am also excited to share that my partner and I have started an entertainment company in hopes of helping the many talented performers I have met along the way get a chance to do what they love and realize their dreams as well. Of course, if I find myself back in Las Vegas I would love to teach at TLV.”