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On March 16, 2018, after weeks of grueling practice, Yann Arnaud and Pawel
Walczewski performed their new Aerial Straps Duo act for audiences in Tampa,
Florida. The following night, tragedy struck. While performing the aerial straps
number, long-time aerialist, Yann Arnaud, fell onto the stage. Emergency procedures
were immediately activated and Yann was transported to the nearest hospital, where
he later passed away from his injuries. The last 2 shows of VOLTA scheduled to
perform in Tampa on March 18th were canceled and the beginning of its tour in New
Jersey was postponed.
VOLTA returned to performances on Friday, April 20th in New Jersey, offering a
tribute to Yann. The performers hugged each other while surrounding a tribute wreath
dedicated to his memory. “Yann loved to perform,” said an unidentified speaker at
the start of the show. "In our production of TOTEM and more recently in VOLTA and
he gave joy to many, many people. And I believe it is the only way to bring honor
to him by also doing what we love. To inspire dreams to touch hearts, and share with
you our entertainment,’ a speaker said at the beginning of the performance. “So I’m
going to ask for your love and support tonight to raise the roof with your applause
in celebration of Yann. Yann, this is for you!” The show ended with a moment
of silence in Arnaud’s memory, as the performers knelt around the memorial wreath.
After a rocky re-start, on June 16, 2018, more light shone on VOLTA - Kevin and
Andrew Atherton made an announcement that they were joining the show for a limited
run: "We’ve been given the opportunity to perform a Duo Aerial Straps act VOLTA.
After discussing it with each other and with our immediate family members, we felt
it would be a symbolic way for us to honor and pay tribute to our friend and
colleague Yann Arnaud. Each performance we do, we will do in the memory of Yann
and for his beautiful family left behind. We can’t imagine the pain and heartache
felt after losing someone so close to you. This is for you Yann!"
On September 19, 2018, Kevin and Andi Atherton began performing the Duo Straps
Act in the show (during the Seattle run) and would perform through to San
Francisco (Jan 6, 2019). From there they have an appointment in Germany for the
re-launch of Paramour. Meanwhile, another pair of performers step in to continue
to legacy that Yann and Pawel began.
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