Rising Stars: Meet Jessica Perez

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Perez. 

Hi Jessica, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstories.
After attending my first music festival in 2015 (Electric Forest) I saw people dancing with hula hoops and was mesmerized. They looked so free! I ordered my first hoop shortly after and began teaching myself how to dance with one. Two years later, I joined an Ohio-based circus group called Glovation Circus and before I knew it, I was officially a circus performer! 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Nothing in life comes easily. There is so much vulnerability in putting yourself out there as a performer. Whether it’s in person or on social media, whatever. You have to get used to being in the spotlight, you have to be confident and bubbly and those things can be draining (believe it or not I’m actually an introvert). 

You also become well acquainted with rejection, and more importantly you learn how to set boundaries for yourself. This means turning down opportunities that don’t align with you. And that’s okay! 

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a circus performer who specializes in fire dancing, hula hooping, and other variety acts. I provide unforgettable entertainment for all different kinds of events! Parties, weddings, conventions, fairs, you name it. 

I also teach private hula hoop classes to anyone who’s interested in learning how to dance with a hoop or maybe just wants to add some light exercise into their life. I think I’m most proud of my ability to encourage and inspire others. If I can brighten someone’s day, then I’ve done my job. 

Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Absolutely! The circus and flow arts world (flow arts meaning the act of prop manipulation combined with dance) is huge. Michigan has a wonderful community of artists who are always eager to help share the knowledge and welcome new folks into the community (or the dark side, as we like to call it). Look up local groups on Facebook, look for upcoming events that mention “flow arts,” or just contact me and I will do everything in my power to help you out! 

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: Instagram.com/saffiresupernova
• Facebook: Facebook.com/saffiresupernova

Image Credits
Digitalis Photo