This Rigging Fundamentals for Aerial Performance course offers a comprehensive introduction to the principles, responsibilities, and practical skills required to rig safely and professionally within aerial performance and live environments.
Delivered over two days, the course blends classroom theory with onsite practical rigging, giving delegates a clear understanding of how loads behave, how equipment is rated and selected, and how legal responsibilities apply in real-world scenarios.
Designed for those working in aerial performance, circus, theatre, and technical disciplines, the course focuses on informed decision-making, safe working practices, and effective communication between performers and rigging professionals.
Delivered by Bryan Donaldson | High Performance
Tickets Prices: £200 (per person for the 2 days) heavily subsidised by Imagineer.
What You’ll Learn
- How to calculate static and dynamic loads
- Equipment selection, downrating, SWL/WLL, and safety factors
- Understanding legislation including Working at Height, LOLER, and PPE regulations
- Rigging equipment types: lifting vs PPE, steel vs aluminium
- Access methods including rope access, MEWPs, scaffolding, and gantries
- Risk assessments, rigging plans, rescue plans, and legal responsibilities
Practical & Demonstration Content
- Knot selection and rope types (dynamic, static, semi-static)
- Sling configurations and their impact on strength
- Mechanical advantage systems (2:1, 3:1) and pulley selection
- Use of descenders for rescue and lowering
- Temporary steel wire rope terminations
- Truss types, specification sheets, and safe slinging methods
- Working at height rescue planning with practical demonstrations
Delegates will also observe professional video demonstrations, including high-wire installation and working-at-height systems.
Course Format & Requirements
- Duration: 2 days (5 hours per day, including a 1-hour lunch break)
- Language: The course is delivered in English. Participants are expected to take notes during theory sessions. If English is not your first language, please contact info@imagineerproductions.co.uk in advance to discuss support options.
- Experience & Ability: Participants should ideally come from an aerial performance or technical background, with a reasonable level of physical ability for optional practical and “at height” demonstrations.
- Access Needs & Reasonable Adjustments: We are committed to making this course as accessible as possible. If you have any access needs or require reasonable adjustments to fully participate, please contact info@imagineerproductions.co.uk prior to booking or as early as possible so we can discuss your requirements.
- Equipment: Harnesses will be provided for practical abseil and rescue elements. Delegates may bring their own harness on day two if preferred.
- Lunch: Please bring your own lunch, as there are limited food options within walking distance. Refreshments, including tea, coffee, and soft drinks, will be provided.
- Location: Our home, The Daimler Powerhouse, Sandy Lane Business Park, Sandy Lane, Coventry, CV1 4DQ – Watch this short video on how to find us.
We are committed to creating an inclusive learning environment. Please contact us in advance if you have any access requirements, neurodivergent needs, health conditions, or caring responsibilities that may affect your participation, so we can discuss appropriate adjustments. info@imagineerproductions.co.uk
We aim to break down barriers to accessing professional development and engagement programme. With ACE’s support we have heavily subsidised the ticket costs of these workshops and would like as many people to benefit from them as possible.
