Aerial Manx's journey in the world of performance art began at the tender age of 18, when he started eating fire in nightclubs across Melbourne. As he honed his skills, he simultaneously pursued a degree in Circus at University, where he discovered the thrill of street theatre.
Street performing allowed Manx to unleash his creativity, improvise, and entertain diverse audiences, both in English and without uttering a word. This unique ability to connect with people from all walks of life would become a hallmark of his career.
Following his 21st birthday, Manx made history by performing a feat that no one had ever attempted before. At the Woodford Folk Music Festival, he swallowed two 2,000Volt neon tubes simultaneously, a record that would remain unbroken for years to come.
As he entered his 22nd year, Manx pushed the boundaries of sword swallowing even further. He became the first person in the world to perform a 'Handstand Sword Swallow', redefining the limits of this ancient art and paving the way for 'Sword Swallowing Acrobatics'.
Throughout his career, Manx has traveled the globe, captivating audiences in street theatre festivals, theatres, and corporate events. His repertoire includes contortion, whipcracking, various forms of juggling, and a multitude of other skills, all showcased alongside his record-breaking sword swallowing stunts.
Some of his most notable achievements include performing at the prestigious Glastonbury Festival with the Monster Sideshow, being the subject of the 2013 ABC Arts Documentary, "Anatomy: 'Stomach'", directed by Hamish McCormick of Carnival Cinema, and setting not one, not two, but three Guinness World Records.
The first record was for the most backflips performed while swallowing a sword in under 1 minute, a feat that required 20 backflips to achieve. The second record was for the heaviest weight to be dangled from a swallowed sword, a staggering 29 kilograms. The third record was for the fastest human backbend walk over 20 meters, which Manx accomplished in a mere 7.8 seconds.
Today, Manx continues to push the limits of his body, always striving to innovate and create new, awe-inspiring performances that leave audiences in wonder.
