10th Annual Open Air Aerial Festival Returns To Open Space

The event also features island favorites from the island UMO Ensemble and UMO School.

Look to the skies on Aug. 7 to see the magic and wonder of aerial acrobatics and dance, as Open Space presents the 10th edition of its much-loved Open Air Outdoor Aerial Festival.

Performers at the show, at 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 7, will include internationally touring artists, local aerialists, and aerial students from Vashon’s own UMO School of Physical Arts.

The lineup includes gravity-defying acts by Cherie Carson of the UpSwing Aerial Dance Company and Terry Crane and Julane Hall from Acrobatic Conundrum.

The event also features island favorites from the UMO Ensemble and UMO School. Since 1989, UMO Ensemble has toured the world, bringing Vashon-based art to communities far and wide. Over the years, UMO has expanded from the original, tight-knit ensemble team to include a family of multidisciplinary associate artists. Island performers include Elizabeth Klob, Arlette Moody, Janet McAlpin, Martha Enson, Esther Edelman, Lynelle Sjoberg and David Godsey.

Along with soaring professionals, the festival will showcase students from The UMO School of Physical Arts. Located at Open Space, UMO School continues the tradition of physical theatre by educating island youth in areas like parkour, aerial, and circus.

The day’s festivities begin with Vashon music group Croaker, playing acoustic music influenced by jazz, Cajun, and klezmer music. This seasoned quartet includes Steve Meyer on bass, Kim Thal on violin, Eric Frith on guitar and banjo, and Andre Sapp on mandolin and guitar.

Admission is by donation, with a suggested donation of $15, but no one will be turned away for lack of funds. Guests are encouraged to bring a blanket and the whole family, but please leave your pets at home. Walk-ups are welcome, but first, visit OpenSpaceVashon.com to RSVP.