Cirque du Soleil artist fell from a height during a performance (6 photos + 1 video)
Category: Terrible (all news), News from the world
1 November 2024
Cirque du Soleil aerialist Maria Konfektova fell during her hoop routine. The girl lost her grip and fell to the stage. The incident occurred on August 24 in Portland, Oregon. 
23-year-old Konfektova, like other Cirque du Soleil artists, performs tricks without a safety net. 
10-year-old Benjamin Goldstein was filming the Kooza show when the tragedy occurred. He, like many viewers, did not immediately understand what had happened.
"At first I thought it was part of the show, like it was done on purpose. But then people started acting weird," the boy said. He saw Konfektova fall face down, blood flowing from her nose, but she raised her head and remained motionless.
The Cirque du Soleil team rushed to Maria's aid, but she continued to maintain her composure.
"She gave a thumbs up as she was being carried off the stage," added Benjamin.
After a 20-minute break, the show resumed.
"I admire the artists. It must have been difficult to continue and finish the show after that. They did a phenomenal job," admitted a young spectator.
Konfektova was taken to the hospital for examination, she is conscious and in a stable condition.
"We want to thank you for your concern and well wishes for our artist. She is recovering well and is being monitored by our medical and coaching team," Cirque du Soleil said in a statement on August 26.
The organization will continue to monitor Konfektova until they feel she is ready to return to the show.
In the comments to one of her old social media posts, Konfektova responded to a concerned fan: "Thank you. Fortunately, I am fine."
Maria was born in Omsk, and according to her online profile, she is a retired rhythmic gymnast.
She holds the Guinness World Record for the fastest aerial hoop rotation, completing 75 rotations in 30 seconds in Zhuhai, China, on April 2, 2021.
