The Pivot: Episode 2 – Industry Crash? No – It’s Time to Create! With Lara Jacobs
The Pivot is an interview series created to highlight those in our industry who have learned to pivot and find a new way forward during the unique challenges caused by the 2020 pandemic. In each episode, Andy Buchanan & Laura-Ann Chong adhere to the advice and share stories from guests in hopes that The Pivot may inspire you and hopefully shine some light on your new normal. Projet LUMIÈRE Project is pleased to partner with CircusTalk for this five-part series.
Growing up in her father’s circus, Rigolo Swiss Nouveau Cirque, Lara learned early about the importance of adaptability and making magic out of the sticks you have– literally. She performed her captivating original act as The Balance Goddess on Cirque du Soleil’s Amaluna from its creation in 2012 until early 2020. In this episode of The Pivot, Lara talks about how she hasn’t seen 2020 as the collapse of our industry, but instead the opportunity to create! Lara is getting ready to launch her own circus theatre concept MoonRise NYC set to open in Brooklyn, New York. She talks about the mentality and fearlessness of taking risks on new projects and how to stay inspired during these challenging times.
The Pivot co-creator Laura-Ann Chong was on tour performing in Cirque du Soleil’s big top show, Amaluna for the past seven years across three continents. She transitioned out of elite gymnastics competing internationally for Team Canada before joining the Amazons of Amaluna. While on tour, she was the chair of the tour’s Social Committee and assistant to the tour’s publicist. During the pandemic, Laura-Ann co-founded Projet Lumière Project and completed her public relations certificate to further her new career. She coaches aerial pole at The Circus Lab in Vancouver, Canada mentoring her students as well as aspiring gymnasts.
The Pivot co-creator Andy Buchanan has over 22 years of experience in the entertainment industry. He is a co-founder of Projet Lumière Project and most recently co-founded his new business, Creative Athletic Performance. Andy is currently a professional skater with the UK television show, Dancing on Ice. He was an artist on Cirque du Soleil’s first ice show, Crystal and Cirque’s second ice show, Axel. Along with being a performer, Andy was the Talent Scout for Ice Skating at Cirque du Soleil. He continues to work with world level competitive skaters as a coach, choreographer and mentor.
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