RISE Pole & Aerial Art Championship

8TH NOVEMBER 2026

RISE is a competition that values the full performance — not only what is executed, but how it is expressed. Open to South African aerial artists, RISE encourages performers to develop a deeper connection with their apparatus and their artistic voice. The championship currently features Pole and Hoop (Lyra), with future growth planned as the community evolves.

WHAT MAKES RISE DIFFERENT?

RISE is more than a competition — it is a showcase of original and expressive aerial performances. This theatre-based event unites performers under one roof, with our 2025 debut featuring two apparatus: Pole and Hoop (Lyra). Open to all aerial artists, RISE invites performers to explore the artistic and technical relationship with their apparatus.

Key Dates

Submissions

Video entry submission and payments for entries

5th July 2026

Announcement

Finalists announced

12th July 2026

Reserve Music

Submission of Music

30th September 2026

Lighting, Props & Final Music

Send us all your show details

18th October 2026

Championship

RISE Championship take place in Johannesburg

8th November 2026

Guidelines & Information

Divisions & Age Categories

Competitors must select the division most appropriate to their experience.

Entry Process

The RISE Championship is open to competitors of all nationalities, whether entering individually or as representatives of a studio.

Costume and Props

Details about your Costume and Props.

GRIP AIDS GUIDELINES

Details about your Grip Aids and Grip Enhancers

Music

Details on competitor’s music for the final competition

JUDGING

Competitors awarded points per section

STAGING AND APPARATUS

view the pole and stage setup

RIGHTS OF THE ORGANISERS

Rights of the Organisers

PHOTOS AND VIDEOS

Competitors acknowledge that their performances may be photographed

COMPETITOR RULES AND REGULATIONS

All competitors are expected to uphold the integrity, professionalism, and safety standards of the RISE Championship

WAIVER OF LIABILTY

Competitors waiver

TICKETS AND FINAL EVENT DETAILS

Where to buy tickets and event details

VIDEO JUDGING CRITERIA

Judging Criteria and Scorecard