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Daily Inspiration: Meet Leah Orleans

Today we’d like to introduce you to Leah Orleans.

Hi Leah, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I have been a professional acrobat since 16 years old. I grew up in a performance family and began training contortion, acrobatics and unicycle when I was nine. I then traveled from my. home in Chicago to circus schools in San Francisco and Montreal to train with top-level coaches from Cirque Du Soleil and Ringling Brothers. I took my theater training, combined with high-level circus skills and built a one-woman circus show. With wit, charisma and sparkle to spare, I delight audiences juggling fire, bending my body into ridiculous positions, and shooting a bow and arrow with my toes.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I have absolutely dealt with struggles like injury, COVID shutting down live entertainment, and being ready in time for large opportunities.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am one of the only talking contortionists in the world. My act involves jokes, humor, and personal connection on a theatrical level not seen in Cirque du solieil or typical circus acts. I make references to pop culture, societal humor and relevant feminist politics in a way that keeps everyone laughing.

What were you like growing up?
I was full into circus. Like a kid obsessed with a sport, I had a passion and drive for circus performing. I am an only child that got a lot of attention and was very involved in extracurricular activities. I was told I was a good leader and was very extroverted growing up.

Contact Info:


Image Credits
Andrew Lesney and Michael Cairns

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