Corde lisse is an aerial circus skill or act that involves acrobatics on a vertically hanging rope. The name is French for "smooth rope".

The ropes are normally made from soft cotton and are about 25-30mm thick.

Corde Lisse moves are normally a combination of held postures and drops.

It is closely related to silks, another aerial circus skill performed on one or two long strips of strong fabric, often in bright colours.

The visual effect can be stunning.

It requires great skill and strength. Performers do not have any kind of safety net or safety line, relying on their own strength and ability to prevent a fall.

The most famous use of aerial circus skills such as these has been for the BBC's test-card.

Cirque de Soleil use corde lisse, silks and trapeze in their shows.

External links

Circus Maniacs Circus School, Bristol, England (http://www.circusmaniacs.com)

Cirque de Soleil Canadian-based Circus Troupe (http://www.cirquedusoleil.com)

Circus Space - Circus school in London (http://www.thecircusspace.co.uk/pages/frames.htm)

La Clare (from Circus Space) demonstrating a position in London, England (http://www.defoam.net/pac/tavi-0.22/index.php?page=ClareMidgley)