Contraptions and other apparatus
Our custom-built structures support dynamic performance, visual storytelling, and experiential moments within live events. Developed to address practical considerations such as space, sightlines, and technical constraints, these elements have evolved into versatile solutions for a wide range of venues. We collaborate with planners, producers, and creative teams to design structures that enhance audience engagement while integrating seamlessly into existing production plans. For events involving water features or pools, we also offer specialized over-water and floating solutions, detailed in our On Water section.
Tall Walker
The Tall Walker puppet is a 13 1⁄2’ tall backpack puppet apparatus. Its impressive height allows for great visibility in large spaces. They can be designed to be transformed and outfitted to support any theme. Click on the info sheet below to see other possible options.
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Gantry Bike
This pedal driven circus platform was initially designed for the festival world. Its large size and capacity to deliver aerial acts anyplace made it an instant hit. Because of this portability the Gantry creates truly memorable immersive experiences. If desired our team can work with event planners to arrange the event space so the Gantry can drive over seated guests. While it is designed to roam it is a great focal piece in any event space. The Cirque Mechanics team can build the Gantry to suit most any venue.
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Carousel
The Carousel was designed for our stage show “42ft – A Menagerie of Mechanical Marvels”. The Carousel is a ground supported, free standing, revolving circus ring and aerial frame. While it solves rigging concerns it is also a great focal element in any room or outdoor space and is generally provided with acrobatic talent.
Spin Cycle
This 7′ diameter platform is a roving stage. The Spin Cycle moves through event spaces with ease as artists pedal it slowly to create moving spectacles. The stage’s 36″ height puts talent head and shoulder above seated patrons. For this reason it is a great showcase for most any circus act or product. In addition the device is also a wonderful way to deliver your CEO or guest speaker to the stage.
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Trike Rover
The 6′ tall Trike Rover drives down 4’ wide aisles and navigates in the tightest of spaces. Its small platform supports atmosphere presentations such as contortion or hand balancing. Like the Spin Cycle it is also a great way to deliver a CEO or guest speaker to the stage. In addition, optional wheel covers provide great branding surfaces.
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Chariot
Another of our innovative contraptions , this trike provides a 10’ tall roving platform. While nimble and able to navigate small spaces its true benefit is the increased visibility for roving talent. In addition the upper platform provides exceptional branding opportunities. The Chariot disassembles for shipping.
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Penny Trike
Nimble vintage style high boy bicycle with trike rear wheels enable this bike to move through crowded spaces.
Trampoline Wall Running
This device combines a competition trampoline with a 16′ tall wall and platform. The “Wall” is a high energy acrobatic act, great for general sessions or as featured event entertainment. This act requires A 20′ x 20′ footprint . Alternatively, if space is an issue we can add the trampoline to our Gantry Bike for a more portable solution.
Russian Swing
This device was created for our touring show “42ft – A Menagerie of Mechanical Marvels” and is now it is part of our event inventory. The swinging pedestal launches acrobats into the air which creates a display of daring, and high flying flips. The swing sets up in under 1 minute, and strikes in 30 seconds. For these reasons it is a truly high flying, high energy solution and is perfect for General Sessions.
Wheel of Destiny
This apparatus is the central element in our Drama Desk nominated show “Zephyr”. This vintage thrill act seldom seen outside of the circus is a great option for general sessions.
Counterbalance Crane
This apparatus was also developed as a rotating ground based aerial device in the stage show “Zephyr”. The lift of the aerialist is achieved using the shifting weight of two artists placed on the opposite end of the lifting arm. A unique aerial device not yet seen in the events world
Other Ground Based Rigging Solutions
Goal Post Rig
We provide an assortment of single goal post aerial rigging solutions. This device is easy to build and requires the least amount of truss. These devices provide great rigging support and are quite common inside ballrooms or event spaces where rigging costs are often prohibitively expensive.
4 Post Rig
This solution utilizes four upright truss legs which connect to an overhead rectangle of truss that can be erected over the stage. The benefit is that this system can be built on the floor and set up to straddle a stage, bars, buffets or seating areas. It can also be placed in the center of your event space so that it takes up very little real estate and can provide a focal element.
So what’s this stuff cost? Click here to visit COST.
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