
Joshua (he/him) is an NYC based circus entertainer, award winning Burlesque performer, and aerial instructor. He has performed across the US, China, and the 7 seas. He is co-owner of Manhattan’s Aerial Arts NYC.
From early on while growing up on a farm in Ohio, he knew he wanted to be on the stage. He received a BFA from Ohio University in Dance, and then traveled to NYC to start his career. He has worked for regional theater across the US, has danced for legendary choreographer Twyla Tharp, and has performed on Norwegian and Princess Cruise Lines.
Joshua currently teaches regular aerial classes at Aerial Arts NYC. Having studied teaching theory and have held multiple personal training certifications, he uses his knowledge of kinesiology and progressions to coach students to execute aerial acrobatics with finesse and ease. One of my classes even received a 5 out of 5 for fun and fitness from Time Out: NY. He brings his love of circus to students of all skills and body types. It does not matter if you are training for fun, fitness, or to learn a new skill, he will help guide you through your Aerial journey through technique, patience, and joy.
As an aerialist and circus performer, he has worked with many NYC event planners and entertainment companies to create and perform solo and duo acts for night clubs, weddings, holiday parties, and more. He combines his early training in dance with his aerial and ground acrobatics to give party goers and audiences a masculine yet graceful cirque performance. His blend of theatricality, death defying skills, and artistry make him a unique and exciting aerial and circus performer.
He is the artistic director of 2 Ring Circus. 2 Ring Circus has created 2 original shows that have toured the US and their original production, “Cirque Le Jazz”, has toured throughout China. The company has acted as dance and circus choreographers of “Wizard of Oz” at Syracuse Stage, “Godspell” at Arkansas Repertory Theatre, and “Seussical” at CFRT. They have created circus choreography for productions at the the LA Opera, Fulton Theatre, Geva Theatre Center, and Syracuse Ballet. Joshua has also choreographed the aerial and circus moments for “The Tempest” at Hartford Stage directed by Darko Tresnjak, “Carnival” at Goodspeed Opera House directed by Darko Tresnjak and choreographed by Peggy Hickey, and productions for the ARACA Project and Alabama Shakespeare Festival.
To learn more about Joshua, please visit his personal website: www.aerialjosh.com
What he offers at Aerial Arts NYC: Silks, Trapeze, Straps, Rope, and Stretch & Flexibility.
What Students Say About Joshua Dean
Aerial silks has been the one fitness activity I've been able to stick with for years. I've gained core strength, stamina and increased my flexibility. It’s fun, challenging — and it helped me lose weight and look great for my wedding!
Brenda N.
I have been taking rope and static trapeze lessons from Joshua Dean for several years and I have the highest regard for his instruction and for him as a person. As an instructor, he is warm and encouraging while being methodical and deliberate in making sure the student understands the movement, every step of the way. Personally, when I have been through injury, Josh has taken care to make sure I don't exacerbate the problem while getting me to productive and improve with every lesson. He welcomes creativity in choreography while being a stickler for proper technique. He is a constant inspiration! I feel extremely lucky to have had him as an instructor and hope to keep learning from him for several years to come!
Sam R.
I thoroughly enjoy training with Josh. I appreciate his enthusiastic instruction and support, all of the knowledge shared, the close attention paid to the details and the importance of safety. I am so grateful to have found such an amazing instructor!
Jenn G.