Adrenaline Junkie and Aerial Maestro
Meet Taibah AlOmran, also known as ‘Tee,’ a spirited fire alarm engineer from Kuwait who transforms into a circus aficionado, artist, and certified instructor by night. Armed with a bachelor’s degree in science and engineering, Tee embarked on her aerial arts journey during the pandemic, defying doctors’ expectations after a shoulder surgery. Her aerial prowess extends across various apparatuses like aerial hoop, straps, and silks, showcasing her resilience. Having performed in Kuwait, India, and Ireland, Taibah cherishes her unforgettable experience in Goa, India, where spontaneity ruled. Now a dedicated instructor, she emphasizes the magic of mobility and the joy of defying limits. In her pursuit of uniqueness, Taibah dreams of opening her own space and fostering a vibrant community that embraces the extraordinary. So, join her journey, trust in God’s plan, and remember, nothing is impossible.
Hi, please introduce yourself to our readers.
Dear CP magazine readers, my name is Taibah AlOmran. I also go by the name ‘Tee’ and I’m from Kuwait. In the mornings I am a feisty fire alarm engineer, and, in the evenings, I turn into a circus freak, artist and certified instructor.
Tell us about your education.
I have completed a bachelor’s degree in science and engineering.
Can you start us off by telling us an interesting fact about yourself?
When I am honest, I’m truly confident about what I do, plus I LOVE commitment and I’ll always make you feel good or at least better about yourself.
How and when did you get introduced to aerial arts, and why did you decide to make it a profession?
Covid made me do it in 2020. When I was a kid, I liked gymnastics, but I thought I was too old. Then, I discovered aerial acrobatics, and it changed my life. A lot of people don’t know that doing aerial arts helps with mobility and is like active physiotherapy. I wanted to challenge myself and prove doctors wrong. In 2018, I had shoulder surgery (Bankart repair) because my shoulder kept dislocating since I was 5. The doctors said I wouldn’t be able to move freely, but aerial arts proved them wrong.
Have you ever had an accident during a performance?
On shows things do go odd and funny sometimes but I think I’m very careful so not really, but I have injured myself a few times just before the show during rehearsals.
With which aerial apparatus do you train?
I train on various equipment like aerial hoop (lyra), straps, spiral, hammock, silks, rope, frame, and trapeze. I also do pole fitness and more. I’m open to training on any apparatus, but it depends on what’s available. Unfortunately, not everything is easily accessible here in Kuwait.
What do you like the most: Aerial Silks, Aerial Hoop, or Aerial Rope? Why? Do you also do something else besides aerials, like, for example, dance or yoga?
I prefer the hoop, but I also really enjoy working with the spiral and straps. I love the hoop because being inside a circle feels meditative to me. I understand the hoop well, and it comes naturally to me—I know how to handle it.
In which countries have you performed?
I performed in Kuwait, India, and Ireland.
What has been your most exciting or memorable performance so far? And can you share some interesting stories from your performances?
The experience in Goa, India, was really enjoyable and unique. It was like a circus place, and everything happened spontaneously. There wasn’t much time for rehearsals, and my shoulder got badly injured just hours before the show. Despite the challenges, everyone involved was authentic. I met wonderful people from all around the world, and some of them have become close friends. We used to distribute brochures randomly on the streets and beaches, inviting people to come and see what we had created under excellent supervision. Surprisingly, people actually showed up. It was a genuine and loveable experience!
When and why did you decide to start teaching this art?
I used to say I’d never be a teacher, but when I got into circus, I experienced something amazing. I wanted to share that great feeling and knowledge with others, so I started teaching in 2022. I realized I had a keen eye for spotting, noticing what’s wrong when someone struggles with a trick or move. I love helping students understand that Mobility is Magic—no joke!
Do you work more with studios, or do you get the most of it on your own?
I’d say it’s almost 50-50, but lately, I’ve been focusing a lot on solo activities. I’m trying to be more original, improve, and prove myself.
How long do you warm-up before your aerial show? What is important to consider for a good warm-up?
It depends on how much time you’ll spend in the air or on the apparatus. For shows, I believe a 45-minute to 1-hour warm-up is a fair amount. This helps prevent injuries and prepares your body for the performance by raising your body temperature.
What is one thing you always keep in your workout bag?
Chalk/rosin, you need a strong dry grip and water because hydration is a must.
What is the biggest achievement in your journey?
The biggest achievement in my journey is becoming the person I am today, with the knowledge and experience I’ve gained through hard work. I faced many challenges, including tough days and not-so-great teachers, especially at the beginning of my journey. However, I also encountered many excellent teachers later on who made me feel confident and capable. I emphasize the challenges first because I believe that facing failures is crucial for success—it makes the journey authentic.
What are some of your other interests and hobbies outside of aerials dancing?
Well, I am an adrenaline junkie. I’m extremist and I love doing extreme sports like bungee jumping, sky diving and watersports. I love to feel free, try new stuff and feel unique and have fun like a kid.
What are you looking towards / your goals for the future?
Open my own place, create the right community by doing more of what I do in the way I do it and make learning more fun.
Your messages for our readers. What training tips can you give to the readers?
I understand that there are many people offering similar services. Being the first at something doesn’t necessarily make you the best, so it’s essential not to be fooled. I believe in being true to yourself, following your heart, and creating a sense of belonging, safety, and respect. If you ever feel that this is what you want, I would love to be part of your journey. Remember, nothing is impossible. If the community you seek doesn’t exist, go ahead, and create it—lead it. All you need is to trust in God’s plan and in yourself.
Your message for us at CP magazine.
Thank you for reaching out to me. I appreciate your time and efforts. You guys are original with great concepts and that’s what I am about. Peace to all.
