
Intro to Hair Suspension with Nicole Malbeuf
Sunday, March 22, 2026
12:30-6pm
Island Circus Space
Genres
Performing Arts
Tickets0 going
Event Description
This workshop is your tool kit to start your independent practice in the wonderful art of hair suspension.
This workshop is your tool kit to start your independent practice in the wonderful art of hair suspension. This 21 hour workshop includes lecture-based theory in anatomy, postural health, core/pelvic floor health, nervous system management and rigging considerations for hair hang. This workshop also includes applied training in physical preparation, hair knot technique (how to tie your hair) and progressions for working towards self-suspension (hanging all your body weight from your hair).
Workshop is complete with hair knot equipment, a step-by-step illustrated hair knot guide, video tutorial and digital handbook.
PRE-REQS:
Students must have a regular movement practice(s) that involves the whole body (circus, dance, yoga, martial arts, gymnastics etc) and is practiced a minimum of 3 times a week.
Students must have healthy hair of medium-to-thick density (number of hairs). Hair length must be armpit length or greater when pulled straight. Hair must be free of chemical treatments (dyes, perms, relaxers) and free of permanent/semi-permanent physical applications (extensions, braids, locks etc). Hair should NOT be treated regularly with high heat tools. Hair that is prone to shedding or breakage is not encouraged. All hair textures/patterns are welcome. Please reach out to us with photos of your hair if you have an undercut, a fringe, shaved sides and/or dramatic layers for an assessment.
Students must be able to invert their hair (by doing a forward-fold at hips for 1-2 minutes). Must be proficient at making tight OVERHAND braids OR have a support person present who can assist you during the hair preparation process.
Must have good spinal health, free of injury and instability. It is suggested that students undergo an assessment and treatment with a physical therapist to address any cervical ligament instability and postural (muscular and/or skeletal) imbalances before the retreat. Must enter into this retreat expecting “slow gratification”. Students must respect the working pace of their own individual body and comfort level.
This retreat is not recommended for students who have been in a vehicular accident(s), have had a concussion(s), have localized hyper-mobility in the neck, experience regular nerve pain, regular dizziness and/or are experiencing more than average daily hair loss (more than 50-150 strands/day).
If you have questions about these requirements and/or if you do NOT meet these requirements but are willing to work towards them, please reach out to Nicole at trellisentertainment@gmail.com to discuss.
PRICING:
$550 + gst (15% discount for ICS members)
Installment plan available: 4 equal payments of $137.50 + gst
Bursary scholarships are available!
Contact us to arrange the installment plan, or apply for the bursary at info@islandcircusspace.com
ACCESS NOTES:
This workshop is presented in English. No sign language interpretation available.
Workshop spaces are not wheelchair accessible.
If students are unable to invert their hair by hinging at the hips and/or braid their own hair, you are welcome to bring a trusted support person to assist with hair knot preparation who will be a regular part of your practice. Let us know if you plan on bringing someone!
Lecture content includes a combination of professional visuals and video, detailed written descriptions and verbal explanations.
We offer multiple seating options. Feel free to bring your own.
Students are welcome to take breaks as needed. We will create a relaxed environment where students can be comfortable being themselves.
Let us know if you have any particular access needs - we will do our best to accommodate.
SCHEDULE
5 days, 21 hours total
Friday, March 20 • 3:30 - 7:00 pm
Saturday, March 21 • 12:30 - 6:00 pm
Sunday, March 22 • 12:30 - 6:00 pm
Monday, March 23 • 3:30 - 7:00 pm
Tuesday, March 24 • 3:30 - 7:00 pm

Intro to Hair Suspension with Nicole Malbeuf
Genres
Performing Arts
Event Description
This workshop is your tool kit to start your independent practice in the wonderful art of hair suspension.
This workshop is your tool kit to start your independent practice in the wonderful art of hair suspension. This 21 hour workshop includes lecture-based theory in anatomy, postural health, core/pelvic floor health, nervous system management and rigging considerations for hair hang. This workshop also includes applied training in physical preparation, hair knot technique (how to tie your hair) and progressions for working towards self-suspension (hanging all your body weight from your hair).
Workshop is complete with hair knot equipment, a step-by-step illustrated hair knot guide, video tutorial and digital handbook.
PRE-REQS:
Students must have a regular movement practice(s) that involves the whole body (circus, dance, yoga, martial arts, gymnastics etc) and is practiced a minimum of 3 times a week.
Students must have healthy hair of medium-to-thick density (number of hairs). Hair length must be armpit length or greater when pulled straight. Hair must be free of chemical treatments (dyes, perms, relaxers) and free of permanent/semi-permanent physical applications (extensions, braids, locks etc). Hair should NOT be treated regularly with high heat tools. Hair that is prone to shedding or breakage is not encouraged. All hair textures/patterns are welcome. Please reach out to us with photos of your hair if you have an undercut, a fringe, shaved sides and/or dramatic layers for an assessment.
Students must be able to invert their hair (by doing a forward-fold at hips for 1-2 minutes). Must be proficient at making tight OVERHAND braids OR have a support person present who can assist you during the hair preparation process.
Must have good spinal health, free of injury and instability. It is suggested that students undergo an assessment and treatment with a physical therapist to address any cervical ligament instability and postural (muscular and/or skeletal) imbalances before the retreat. Must enter into this retreat expecting “slow gratification”. Students must respect the working pace of their own individual body and comfort level.
This retreat is not recommended for students who have been in a vehicular accident(s), have had a concussion(s), have localized hyper-mobility in the neck, experience regular nerve pain, regular dizziness and/or are experiencing more than average daily hair loss (more than 50-150 strands/day).
If you have questions about these requirements and/or if you do NOT meet these requirements but are willing to work towards them, please reach out to Nicole at trellisentertainment@gmail.com to discuss.
PRICING:
$550 + gst (15% discount for ICS members)
Installment plan available: 4 equal payments of $137.50 + gst
Bursary scholarships are available!
Contact us to arrange the installment plan, or apply for the bursary at info@islandcircusspace.com
ACCESS NOTES:
This workshop is presented in English. No sign language interpretation available.
Workshop spaces are not wheelchair accessible.
If students are unable to invert their hair by hinging at the hips and/or braid their own hair, you are welcome to bring a trusted support person to assist with hair knot preparation who will be a regular part of your practice. Let us know if you plan on bringing someone!
Lecture content includes a combination of professional visuals and video, detailed written descriptions and verbal explanations.
We offer multiple seating options. Feel free to bring your own.
Students are welcome to take breaks as needed. We will create a relaxed environment where students can be comfortable being themselves.
Let us know if you have any particular access needs - we will do our best to accommodate.
SCHEDULE
5 days, 21 hours total
Friday, March 20 • 3:30 - 7:00 pm
Saturday, March 21 • 12:30 - 6:00 pm
Sunday, March 22 • 12:30 - 6:00 pm
Monday, March 23 • 3:30 - 7:00 pm
Tuesday, March 24 • 3:30 - 7:00 pm
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