Red Swan Entertainment -Fire Performance Management & Production
In the beginning..
Summer 2007, Knotts Berry Farm was searching for a new fire act for their annual Halloween Haunt event. After approaching a few different acts and not finding the right fit, the representative of Knotts was referred to Tedward, an LA based Fire Manipulator. He enlisted fellow Fire Performer Michelle LaVon to create the show and a new way of casting a fire production. A new paradigm was needed; and Red Swan was born.
"We found ourselves in a unique situation; the usual methods of pulling in performers would not suffice. At first we tried to place an existing troupe in the gig, but we encountered the same problems that Knotts had. In the end we had to create a unique way of casting the show. This led to the formation of a company."
Work with what you've got..
As the roster of talent continued to expand and diversify, Red Swan expanded its focus. Their artists displayed strengths not only in fire performance but in Aerial, Belly Dancing, Juggling, Stilt Walking, Clowning, even Contortion. The list literally goes on and on, many skills sets fall into what are often called circus arts, but the sky is not even the limit for what has been created.
"When we realized how diverse and talented our performers were, we knew we had to come up with a model to let the imagination of our clients and the potential of our talent really shine. We needed a better way to organize information, evaluate safety, and filter professional fire performers. We saw the timing was right to move fire performance out of the circus sideshows and dirty raves and into the respectable art that it is fast becoming."
Don't reinvent the wheel..
Take what works and change the rest. Red Swan's business model was first inspired by theatrical agencies and dance companies, keeping in mind the differences involved with this new and potentially dangerous art form. Pulling on their own specialized knowledge, Red Swan quickly found a way to connect the fire world to those seeking this imaginative and captivating art.
"We let our growth be very organic. If producers need a list of photos and video to select someone, we made sure we had those and other information readily available. Other clients may not know what or whom they are looking for, so we get their ideas then cast, create and manage the show. As new avenues have presented themselves we have followed the paths to see where they lead: videos, theme parks, even fire stunts for film."
Play it safe..
Working closely with the North American Fire Arts Association (NAFAA) Red Swan understands how important safety training and awareness are in this specialized field.
"As we move forward as a community and as individual artists, it is crucial that we have the respect and trust of the venue owners and safety officials. Unfortunately not everyone who can spin fire has also been taught proper safety. We want to help our performers be their best and we want to offer the best to our clients. This comes when spectacular performances are fully enjoyed with the stress free environment of safety first."
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