From First Class to Full-Time Aerialist: Rachel Morano

Written by Majka Strazer, Momentum Aerial Marketing Manager & Lyra Instructor

When people think of aerial arts, they might think of the sport as a hobby. While that is what aerial means to many, it can be much more than that. It is something that allows you to have new experiences, connect to a community, and much more. Rachel Morano, a previous student at Momentum Aerial, has taken her love for aerial arts beyond the classroom and turned it into her profession: “In 2018, I took my very first Lyra class at Momentum Aerial with Joanie. From the moment I stepped into that hoop, I fell in love with the freedom of expressing myself through this art form. Over the years, that love has only grown, shaping not just my passion but my path.”

It’s important to recognize that just like anything else, this creative outlet can grow far beyond what it began as. “Fast forward to two years ago, I was given an incredible opportunity to work as a paid aerialist and showgirl at the Great Alaskan Bush Company in Anchorage, Alaska. What began as a single class has now blossomed into a full-time career—a journey I never could have imagined when I first started. Along the way, I’ve had the unforgettable experience of performing in Alaska’s breathtaking outdoors, including at the Girdwood Forest Fair and Salmonfest. These unique opportunities allowed me to connect with audiences in magical settings, surrounded by the beauty of nature.”  

Rachel, also known by her performer name, Sedona, is living proof that you can have a profession that not only supports you, but you enjoy. She is a credible image that one can can grow their passions into experience and gain new opportunities from there.

“I’m beyond grateful for every step of this adventure, from those early days learning the basics to now performing professionally. This journey has been proof that when you pursue what you love, amazing opportunities can unfold. Thank you Momentum Aerial and thank you Joanie!!” 

Aerial is a gift in more ways than one, and Momentum absolutely loves to see each and every one of our students progressing, and maybe even going on to work or perform in the aerial world themselves. If you or anyone you know has gone through our program and “made it” so to speak, please contact us! We would appreciate hearing your story and how aerial has impacted your life. This art form is incredibly special, and sharing it with the world is so important when it comes to what we can learn from it. Aerial can and will take you wherever you want to go if you let it.

Rachel poses on her lyra, set to the breathtaking backdrop of the Alaska wilderness.

Here is a pic of Rachel from her first semester at Momentum Aerial, in 2018.