T E S T I M O N I A L S
"Learning dance trapeze with Rae was an inspiring journey. They unlocked new levels of grace and strength by blending creative movement with thoughtful conditioning exercises. They taught me how to redefine my limits and I carry their teachings with me to this day in my aerial dance practice."
- Hartli Y.
"I have had the pleasure of learning trapeze from Rae in both private and group settings for several years. Rae is a knowledgable, compassionate, and attentive instructor whose commitment to inclusivity for all bodies within aerial is matched by her deep passion and love for the art form. Rae's patient, curious, and supportive teaching style cultivates a welcoming and celebratory space where all humans are invited to explore, play, and create."
- Megan D.
"I grew so much as an aerialist under Shelby Rae's tutelage. She made me fall in love with dance trapeze and I found I could incorporate grace, expression, and even emotion into my movements on the apparatus. Rae is also a patient instructor, and I always feel she wants her students to succeed, no matter where they are in their aerial journey."
- Deanne G.
"I attended classes with Shelby Rae at the Dallas Circus Center for about 6 months. I cherish every moment. Rae is an amazing instructor that gives off this free-flow vibe and you just can't help but let loose. She creates a very comfortable atmosphere for her students, has a beautiful style, and is very patient and helpful as you fall into your own. I learned so much in just a few months and I can't wait to put it all back to use. If you've been debating on taking a class - this is your sign to FLY. She'll take great care of you."
- Miranda W.
"Rae is an absolute joy to work with and learn from. Their patience, kindness, and passion radiates. It is an honor each and every time I get to share space with them."
- Drew S.
"Rae creates a welcoming, supportive, and encouraging atmosphere in trapeze classes, meeting students where they are at and embracing what makes each individual's practice unique, and opening doors for creative expression. Rae's classes ignited my love for trapeze, teaching me not only foundational moves and technique, but also how to approach the apparatus as a vehicle for exploring possibilities."
- Lucy
"I had the privilege of training with Rae early on in my aerial journey, and they were the reason that I fell madly in love with trapeze. Rae's passion for teaching was evident from the very first class and her focus on technique and safety was always at the forefront. As someone who struggles with social anxiety and group settings, I was really grateful to be in a class where I felt seen, supported, and encouraged by the instructor and was able to be vulnerable in the exploration process without judgment. I was able to find incredible success and growth in my aerial journey under Rae's instruction. I'm forever thankful to have had Rae and develop confidence in myself as an aerialist thanks to them."
- Shanne
"I was very anxious when I signed up for my first dance trapeze class. I knew Rae was going to be my teacher, but what I didn't know was how safe and confident she was going to make me feel. She focuses on safety and how to properly use your body to achieve your end goal. She encourages her students from the start of class to the very end. She's absolutely a phenomenal teacher and if you ever get the opportunity to take one of her classes, I highly suggest you do."
- Maggi F.
"Rae is a phenomenal teacher who truly cares about her students and the experiences they have. She takes the time to learn where her pupils are at each lesson, both physically and mentally. You never have to worry about feeling inexperienced or constricted by any bodily limitations. She will always find a way to help you realize that you are beautiful and capable of incredible things."
- Madelyn W.
"Rae is an excellent aerial instructor. She has a vast amount of patience and pushes her students past their boundaries. I took classes with her for over a year and I learned so many amazing tricks and skills. She always made me want to push harder and never give up. If I ever struggled with a trick she always took the time to go back over it and thoroughly explain everything. I would highly recommend her to anyone whether they are at an advanced or beginner level."
- Stephanie
"I highly recommend learning from Rae if you get the chance! She is very knowledgeable and is great at queuing you through the skills that are being taught. She also creates such a welcoming environment in her classes. Anyone would be lucky to learn from her!"
- Audrey P.
"I have been following Rae's aerial journey for a few years and jumped at the opportunity to take a class with her when she started teaching in Dallas. I have always thought she was a very talented artist and I have never regretted taking that first class. It was a joy to spend a little over a year learning a new skill from an instructor who was able to break down a pretty intense skill however her students needed until it finally clicked. And she was always everyone's loudest cheerleader. I miss her classes dearly. They gave me the confidence to pursue other forms of aerial and continue to grow my own skills. I could not recommend her as a teacher or a performer enough."
- Shelby M.