PRO Talk: Ready? Action! (Sports) - Casting Action Sports in Circus Productions

PRO Talk: Ready? Action! (Sports) – Casting Action Sports in Circus Productions

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CircusTalk PRO Talk: Jean-Damien Climonet on casting athletes in circus shows
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PRO Talk: Ready? Action! (Sports) – Casting Action Sports in Circus Productions

Stacy Clark
In our second episode of PRO Talks, action sport consultant, coach, and talent scout Jean-Damien Climonet shares just what he looks for in a demo video – and why. We also discuss the different aspects of transitioning from life as an athlete to life as an on-stage artist, including the similarities and differences in mindset, lifestyle, skill development and personal growth. Tune in for an inside look into the ever-evolving world of action sports destined for the stage.
Jean-Damien Climonet is a two-time Olympian in freestyle skiing (aerials.) He was a member of the French national ski team for 11 years and went on to coach freestyle skiing in France, Australia and Canada. Jean-Damien toured North America for five seasons performing in ski shows and special events. Since retiring from sport, Jean-Damien has become an expert in actio...
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Stacy Clark

A former gymnast and professional circus performer, Stacy worked in marketing and communications before leaving it all behind to perform and teach circus around the world on stage, at festivals and on screen. Stacy is co-founder of Creative Athletic Performance, a consulting service specializing in casting, coaching and creation. She also teaches career development and act development to the next generation of circus artists training at San Diego Circus Center. Until 2020, Stacy was the Director of Casting at Cirque du Soleil, leading a team of international talent scouts and advisors. Stacy's journey at Cirque du Soleil began in 2007 when she joined the Casting department as a Talent Scout, recruiting athletes and circus artists for the company’s shows worldwide. In 2011 she became Acrobatic Coach on Amaluna, touring North America. Stacy holds a Bachelor of Applied Arts from Ryerson University and a Leadership diploma from Concordia University. She is a certified yoga teacher, nutrition coach, NASM performance enhancement specialist and CrossFit level 1 and CrossFit Kids trainer. “I believe in safe, open learning environments, and cultivating a sense of agency in students, athletes and artists. Excellence in human performance begins with being an excellent human.”