Culture
Behind the scenes with the circus Conelli´s artists Part 2
Another exploding circus act this year at Conelli comes from the duo Vladimir. The two Ukrainians, Vladimir Snitko and Vladimir Karvatyuk perform a spectacular balancing act with swords. They met in middle school doing acrobatics. They were doing a trio with Snitkov´s wife until she got pregnant. Finally 5 years ago they started working as a duo.
Duo Vladimir is busy performing all year long in dinner shows, cruising ships, at casinos and various circuses like Starlight and Pander.
Duo Vladimir – credits Dmitry Shakhin
The idea to work with swords came from Snitko. They were both brainstorming for new ideas, which no other acrobats had done. Karvatyuk confessed he didn´t approve right away but sometimes something crazy can also be good, he shared. Even if it is dangerous they went for it. Before each show both enjoy some time alone to be able to find peace in themselves.
They never look at each other during their performance. When one wants to come down or let go, he signals with his hand. The first year of practice was really challenging, said Snitko as they had no example to follow. Now they are pro at it and even own the Guiness world record of 12 1/2 seconds. Snitko smiled and said they can do better! Right now they are entertaining the public of Conelli !
Last but not least we talked to Duo Unity, two Canadian, Lea (27) & Francis (26). The couple has been working together professionally for the last five years since they finished the intensive circus school in Montreal. As both were using the cyr wheel individually they decided to form a duo. Francis explained noone had done it so they continued with their idea to create something new and unique. Lea explained that it is very important to make it work that both are about the same height and turn in the same direction.
Since 2015 they have been traveling the world with their wheel from Japon, France (Moulin Rouge, Cirque de Demain), to Spain (Albacete Gold Medal). They even got involved in the creation of a melody for their performance. At Conelli they enter the chapiteau when two incredible singers sing a love song live from Eros Ramazzotti and Anastasia. Like per magic they enter gracefully step by step and the love story begins. Francis grabs the wheel and with power turns it while Lea begins slowly her acrobatics.
Conelli starts looking for their artists many years before the actual show sometimes three years. Family Gasser goes to various festivals, circurses, look at dvds, watch YouTube videos and use circus agencies. Jeremy Gasser, with whom we talked to during the break, also takes care of looking for great performers.
Behind the scenes we felt like a part of the family and the artists looked happy and content. We had an amazing time watching this year´s program DAS ORIGINAL and we encourage you to go with your families. You will have the time of your life !
If you missed Part I please click here
