Jordan Berwick, founder of Headbanger Circus, has brought together a team of aerial artists he has collaborated with over several years to create their first full-length show, The Adventure of Taking Flight.
Rehearsals are taking place at Studio Air on the Rivermead Industrial Estate (where these photos were taken), where performers are fine-tuning routines that blend strength, choreography and storytelling. Jordan said:
“We’ve all worked together in different ways over the years.
“Bringing everyone into one show just made sense. It’s about combining all those different talents into something bigger.”
Although the cast features performers from across the region, the decision to stage the show in Swindon has been intentional.
Jordan, who grew up in the town, is working with local businesses to secure sponsorship and deliver what he describes as a homegrown production. At the heart of the show is a storyline designed with families in mind.
The production follows two siblings who discover a mysterious book, leading them into a series of imagined worlds. The narrative unfolds across ten aerial acts, combining acrobatics, music and staging.
From the show description:
“Featuring 10 breathtaking aerial acts, the show blends dazzling acrobatics, vibrant visuals, and heartfelt storytelling to inspire creativity, courage, and belief in the impossible. From soaring flights above glowing landscapes to magical encounters born from imagination, every scene is crafted to delight audiences of all ages.”
Performer Robyn Ellis said the show centres on imagination and wonder.
“It’s about that sense of childlike wonder, dreams coming to life,” she said.
“We’re using a range of aerial equipment, including some unusual pieces like a cube and a moon structure, to create something visually different.”
Behind the spectacle lies years of dedicated training.
“Most aerial artists train multiple times a week, often for several hours at a time,” Robyn said.
“It’s strength, flexibility and also creativity, turning movement into something that tells a story.”
Performer Anne Hedegaard said preparations for the production have been ongoing for months.
“We’ve all trained for years, but when it comes to a production like this, we start months ahead, building routines and working closely with partners,” she said.
Despite its visual appeal, she said aerial performance remains relatively niche.
“You can start as an adult,” Anne added.
“There are beginner classes in different places, but you do have to go looking for them.”
The Adventure of Taking Flight will be staged at The Deanery CE Academy in Swindon on Friday 8th May 2026 from 7pm-9pm and Saturday 9th May 2026 from 4pm-6pm.
Organisers say the show is family-friendly, but will include flashing lights and loud music.
Tickets and further information are available at www.headbangercircus.com.
