About Me
When everyone was young, their elders always said don't play with fire. Unfortunately, not everyone learns that lesson very well. The Ohio Burn Unit is one group that certainly fits that criterion.
We are a fire-arts performance troupe from North East Ohio. With artists who have been actively performing for over four years and major performances at various venues throughout Ohio, our troupe is one of the most active in the area. Our artists are able to provide stilt walkers, jugglers, correographed combat sequences, solo fire performers, and a variety of other skills to make any special event exceptionally "hot".
While a lot of people look at fire as dangerous and rather painful, we have used it as an art form. It is rather dangerous and painful too, and that's why not everyone does what we do, but it is also a unique experience to be surrounded by the roar of flame with nothing between you and it but your own skills. There is something to be said for what we as performers get out of what we do. As always, respect is the key word in ensuring our own safety and that of the people around us. After all, such a spectacle is sure to draw a crowd in any situation. A good audience is a reward in and of itself, and in return we offer a show that isn't to be soon forgotten.
Unfortunately, while the experience is one that is not to be forgotten, it doesn't put food in our stomachs or fuel in our cauldron. So a little appreciation in monetary form is always welcome. As such, there are certain things that those interested in hiring us should be aware of. Information on what we offer, our insurance coverage and necessary permits for your venue to host us are available upon request.
The mediums of our art form have been around for centuries. From every culture there are examples of object manipulation as an art form. There are many parallels to martial arts in what we do, and we do use weapons and forms in some of our styles. We have several amazing staff spinners who can pull off moves that boggle the mind. Often, we also use sword sparring in our shows which is always a popular event. One of our most popular utensils, poi, originate from New Zealand Maori tribes, where they were originally used in dance, and to tell stories. Every area has some history of juggling as well. But some of the things we do are unique to the culture of fire spinning. We utilize several tools specific to our art form such as crosses, chandeliers, suns, fire breathing, etc.
What we do is add an extra element to these ancient forms of object manipulation: fire. While the mediums we use have been around for hundreds of years, that isn't to say there is no innovation in the field. New styles and methods are being discovered every day by the community. And our performers try to stay on the cutting edge of that frontier as much as possible. As such, many of performers are far above average in skill and ability when it to comes to our specialties. Just lighting something on fire and playing with it, while perhaps fun, does not a fire performing artist make. A burn victim maybe, but not an artist. We have worked long and hard to refine our art, and we give back to the community by helping to fuel innovation. As such, we are happy to meet up and spin with other performers when possible.
We in no way advocate that you try this at home. First of all, it is dangerous and shouldn't be attempted by anyone who is not trained in the art, or have extensive experience with their chosen medium without fire first. Second, we don't need the competition for work. However, those who wish to dabble or learn are always welcome to approach us if they are willing to dedicate some time to learning, several of our members are happy to help beginners to get started. In addition, we highly recommend any beginners visit Home of Poi and learn more first. There are many forums there packed with colorful and interesting people who will kindly aid and offer encouragement and resources to beginners and experienced performers alike.
