As part of our CircusTalk PRO membership content, available exclusively to PRO membership subscribers, please enjoy this PRO video series called Think Like an Acrobat.

Shenea Stiletto is a two-time World Acrobatic Champion, USA Gymnastics Hall of Fame Member, a World-Class Handbalancer and a seasoned professional in the circus industry. In this series, she will share her expertise as a career circus performer as well as select insights and secrets from her guests about the business. Think Like an Acrobat will cover an array of useful topics from how to navigate a contract, to understanding the role of a good agent, and how to maintain long-distance relationships while living the globetrotter life.

In episode 7, Shenea speaks with Olga Pikhienko, Cirque de Demain Gold medal winner and  legendary multi-skilled Cirque du Soleil artist who appeared in the original productions of Quidam, Varekai, & Iris, and at one time was coined as “One of the best acts in the world.” Olga is also a model and an actress famous for her appearance in the critically acclaimed documentary “Fire Within,” and is one of the most sought-after circus trainers in the circus world specializing in hand-balancing and contortion.

Shenea Stiletto

Acrobat, Podcaster, Circus Artist, Handstand Instructor -United States

Shenea Stiletto (Shenea Booth) is a two-time World Champion Gold Medalist in Acrobatic gymnastics, a USA Gymnastics Hall of Fame Member, and World Acrobatic Society Inductee. Her career includes a decade of collaborations with Cirque Du Soleil including the coveted hand balancing role as "The Promise" in Varekai, becoming the first-ever African American female soloist to play a lead character in a Cirque Du Soleil production.
Shenea was also a finalist on America’s Got Talent and has continued to be a featured artist with prominent circus entertainment companies worldwide.

Shenea's profile