Shane is passionate about teaching the art of flying trapeze to first-timers and seasoned flyers. He discovered flying trapeze at 18 at French Woods Festival, initially hired as a water ski instructor. When a spot opened in their circus program, he jumped at the chance. He started as a catcher and trained in multiple disciplines, including static trapeze, doubles trapeze, low cast, fire, and unicycle. Shane began waterski racing at 8, holding multiple Australian Championship titles.

As rig manager at Cincinnati Circus Company and iFly Trapeze, Shane led teams in facilitating exciting classes for thousands over 10 years. Known for his intuitive and caring approach, he guides beginners through their first flights, helping them overcome fear.

As co-founder and Head of Client Experience at SBTC, Shane is dedicated to creating a safe, encouraging environment for community growth. He finds it rewarding to help others feel seen, supported, and encouraged. Whether someone is climbing 5 steps up the ladder for the first time or completing a double back tuck, he believes facilitating individual transformation improves social and emotional well-being within the community.

Fun Questions:

What inspired you to get into trapeze?
My entry into the circus world came by being in the right place at the right time. One of the guys from the circus department at French Woods said to me, “One of the trapeze guys is delayed in getting to camp so we need someone for the trapeze. You are really strong, you should try out.” I am a big adrenaline junkie and said, “Heck yes, I’m down.” I tried out, got the position, and fell in love with flying trapeze. I’ve been doing it now for 22 years!

What’s a fun fact about you that not many people know?
I was an Australian Champion Waterski Racer in my youth. We used to race at over 100 MPH.

What’s your favorite thing about teaching trapeze?
Witnessing someone do something they thought was impossible. It often happens in a beginner class when someone is too afraid to take the leap off the platform, take their hands off for the first time in a knee hang, or attempt a catch. The entire audience is there with them, cheering them on, with no luck. Then, all of a sudden, something comes up in them that allows them to conquer their fear and go for it. The crowd goes wild, and you can feel the positive emotion in the air. The flyer lands in the net with the biggest smile on their face. They defeated the dragon and just proved to themselves that they are braver than they could have ever imagined. It is the hero's journey transpiring right in front of us all.

What’s your favorite way to unwind after a day of training?
Stretching and moving my body, eating a yummy meal, taking a hot shower, and having a siesta, lol.

What’s your favorite move or trick in trapeze?
The Cutaway Half