Circus Performer Mariia Konfektova Falls During Live Show in Stunt Gone Wrong, Receives Medical Attention
The terrifying moment when an aerial hoop artist with Cirque du Soleil fell during a live performance, landing without a safety net. The incident occurred on Saturday night, August 24, during a show of Cirque du Soleil‘s “Kooza” at the Portland Exposition Center in Portland, Oregon. The video, obtained by KOIN 6 News, shows Mariia Konfektova, 23, spinning on her aerial hoop before losing her grip and falling to the ground in full view of the audience.
In the footage, Konfektova is seen lying face down on the stage while other performers react in shock. Like many Cirque du Soleil performers, she was performing without a safety net.
Benjamin Goldstein, 10, who was at the show with his family, recorded the fall and initially thought it might be part of the act. “At first, I thought it was part of the show,” Goldstein told KOIN 6 News. “But then people started acting strangely, and I realized something was wrong.”
Goldstein observed that Konfektova appeared to hit her nose, resulting in visible bleeding, but she remained still. He later reported to ABC News that the Cirque du Soleil team quickly came to her aid and that Konfektova “maintained her composure” throughout the ordeal. “She gave a thumbs-up as she was being carried off stage, which was a great sign,” Goldstein said.
Cirque du Soleil addressed the incident on Facebook, stating that Konfektova is recovering and being cared for by their medical and coaching team. A spokesperson confirmed to KOIN 6 News that she was transported to the hospital for examination but was conscious and stable.
The show was paused for about 20 minutes before resuming, with the performers deciding to continue. “I have to give those performers kudos—for continuing and completing the show after something like that, it’s got to be difficult,” Goldstein said.
Konfektova’s Instagram account later assured fans that she was okay, responding to a concerned comment with, “Thank you. Luckily, I’m okay.”