Empyrean Arts observes its fourth anniversary with Freakshow, a showcase of student performances (and birthday cake) on Saturday, July 27.

Empyrean Arts observes its fourth anniversary with Freakshow, a showcase of student performances (and birthday cake) on Saturday, July 27.
Performing aerial arts — aka aerials — such as silks, trapeze and hoop may seem to require an almost superhuman amount of strength. But as new circus-arts studios and collectives have opened throughout Asheville in the past decade, opportunities for both serious performers and beginners have grown.
The unique local dance troupe performs on the ground and in the air. Their show “Jump Sessions,” featuring live music by Hello Hugo, closes out tonight at The Orange Peel. 7 p.m., $14. Photo by Michael Oppenheim.