Veronica Callan, one of the instructors at Ann Arbor Aviary, performs in the space at 4720 S. State.
Courtney Sacco | AnnArbor.com
The owners of Ann Arbor Aviary, located in a warehouse space at 4720 S. State St., describe the studio as a fitness center and performance arts space. It offers instruction in the aerial arts, including static trapeze, silks, lyra and aerial rope. It also offers dance, yoga and barre conditioning classes.
Ann Arbor Aviary co-owners Lia Lilley and Anne Ryan inside their new studio at 4720 S. State St.
Courtney Sacco | AnnArbor.com
“We couldn’t find anywhere to practice in Ann Arbor, so we were driving out to (Detroit Flyhouse) two or three times a week,” said Ann Arbor Aviary co-owner Anne Ryan.
Tired of the long drive and costs involved, Ryan and her partners started looking for a space in the Ann Arbor area to open their own studio.
“This place came up and it has the little reception area up front and in the back we had this warehouse with the high ceilings,” she said.
Ann Arbor Aviary celebrated its grand opening on Friday with aerial performances and a local artist gallery —something they want to continue on the last Friday of every month with an event called “Lift Off.”
In the beginning, the studio will offer three classes per night Mondays through Thursdays. Fridays are reserved for workshops and events, and there will be classes and workshops offered on the weekends. The studio will also host private events.
“We’re trying to promote this in the yoga community and in the athletic community,” Ryan said. “We definitely want to talk to sororities and fraternities and stuff like that.”
Although aerial performances can look challenging, Ryan said newcomers shouldn’t be intimidated: “Everyone can do a little something. The first day you’re here, you’ll be able to do something,” she said.
Co-owner Lia Lilley added: "It’s a really good activity that you can show solid progression through."
Ryan suggested people interested in trying a class attend a beginner’s workshop.
For more information, check out Ann Arbor Aviary’s Facebook page or website.
Lizzy Alfs is a business reporter for AnnArbor.com. Reach her at 734-623-2584 or email her at lizzyalfs@annarbor.com. Follow her on Twitter at http://twitter.com/lizzyalfs.