Trapeze School New York
By Nathan Blaney
Wednesday. Jul 14, 3:45 AM
Learn the "ropes" of swinging and flying by the Hudson!

It’s a well-documented fact that New York is a circus, but some residents are taking things to another level. Not content with merely Big Apple Circus and Coney Island Circus Side Show, people of all ages are turning to Trapeze School New York to learn the "ropes" of swinging and hanging. Located on a small strip of land right on the Hudson River, only blocks north of the former World Trade Center site, this place is quite a spectacle. Its very public location constantly draws in crowds to watch people fly through the air.

You might think that this sort of thing is only for people who would be at home bungee jumping or skydiving, but that's not true. On the day I visited them, TSNY had students spanning a large age range and skill levels. One thing which I think they all had in common was enthusiasm! There was no hesitation when it came time to grab the bar and hop off the platform for the first time. Judging by the smiles on their faces, everyone seemed to be having an excellent time. Despite varying degrees of success in following the instructor's directions to let go of the bar or swing their legs, everyone seemed to get the basics down pretty quickly.

Although I generally prefer activities that keep me firmly connected to the earth, this really seemed like a lot of fun. I may find myself back there as a student before the summer is over! All of the staff were helpful and friendly, and I think this would be an excellent way to spend a couple hours in New York City, especially if you don't feel like hitting all the usual tourist sites.

Nathan Blaney

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