Meet Queen Ravenden | Licensed Creative Arts Therapist & Circus Performer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Queen Ravenden and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Queen, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
At the height of covid, everyone was isolated. It made sense to create a virtual wellness center to reach those at home across the 50 states who needed additional support.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
In addition to being a licensed creative arts therapist, I am also a circus performer and half of NYC’s Premiere Black Duo Aerialist, Twin Eclipse.

After getting my undergraduate degree, I joined a circus company as a dancer. I was in awe of the aerialist, and I knew that was what I wanted to do next. I began training, and the rest is history.

For a short time, I was with a dance company who worked under an entertainment company in NYC that didn’t book black performers as leads. I knew this would limit my growth as a performer, and I quickly left. I knew that I deserved better.

Since then, I’ve been the lead performer on stages and shows around the world. I book my own private circus events where I get to produce, cast, and perform. I am also honored to be a resident performer at House of Yes.

I never had any black aerial teachers. There are very few black circus performers in the USA. I means a lot to be leading the way for future generations of black circus performers to be inspired & to know that they can do it to!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Favorite vegan restaurant: Modern Love

Favorite bar: Barcade

Favorite park: Highland Park

Favorite club: House of Yes

Favorite Show: Company XIV

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My mother has always been my biggest support. She noticed my talent and love for the arts early on & placed me in everything: dance, piano, ice skating, swimming, painting, and theatre. She also noted the importance of gaining an education. So my masters degree was the perfect combination of the creative arts and psychotherapy. I wouldn’t be where I am today without her.

Website: www.queenravenden.com

Instagram: @queenravenden & @twin.eclipse

Facebook: Queen Ravenden

Other: https://www.gigsalad.com/twin_eclipse_new_york_city

Image Credits
Black and white photo by Alexander Rivero All other aerial photos by Kenny Rodriguez Other duo aerial performer is Jon Joni All photos (except black and white ) taken at House of Yes