Human beings are conditioned to look up, our eyes instinctively go for the top. Tourists stare at a tower’s peak the same way an audience follows an acrobat’s ascent to the top of a pyramid. There is something fascinating about how high one gets for a triple salto– and in a flyer’s ability to seemingly defy gravity. Following movements and body attentively, the crowd bursts into applause when the artist succeeds. It sometimes feels like porters are forgotten, aren’t getting as much light, especially since limbs extended above their head are likely to cast a shadow on them. However, the nature of their role and the responsibilities they entail are definitely not a supporting character’s. Even if supporting their partner is what’s expected of them!

Trust best describes what hand to hand is about. Porters must therefore do what it takes to maintain their flyer’s. There is no room for doubt nor fear when one goes into a dynamic trick or intricate handstand. A sequence’s success depends on two individuals. They rely upon, depend on, and can influence each other. Consequently, porters make it a priority to give their flyer what they need at all times, whether it’s a strong grip or peace of mind. In many ways, a porter’s duties are as physical as they are psychological. They look after their partner’s body by preventing any harm and giving the right balance of softness and rigidity positions require. “Bases” must also read minds and understand what limbs are saying. Only those truly connected to their partner can be a step ahead, anticipate their next move, and catch them be...