Viktoriia Mamontova

It all began with rhythmic gymnastics, which she practiced from childhood until reaching the master level. That path eventually led her onto a cruise ship, where alongside her own performances she had the chance to watch acrobats on straps. Their act sparked a great curiosity in her — to try it herself and test her own abilities.

“Do I have what it takes?”

She took her first steps in aerial acrobatics on hoop and silks. Three years ago, she came down to the ground and began developing her skills in hula hoop manipulation. She learned circus techniques from fellow artists during cruises, took online lessons, and also trained and experimented on her own.

For her, circus art is more than just performance. She enjoys giving simple tricks completely new, artistic forms. She focuses on the quality of movement and wants every act she creates to have its own unique character.

Outside of circus, she is fascinated by cultures and mythologies from around the world. She caught the “history bug” as a little girl when she had the chance to take part in an archaeological excavation. Today, she enjoys watching stand-up comedy — and even draws medical knowledge from it.

“It’s a surprisingly effective and wonderfully entertaining way to explore serious topics.”