John Hay is an aerial artist who trained much of his life as a gymnast. For two years he was a member of the Canadian National Gymnastics Team (1995-97) winning medals in both national and international competitions and was Province of Manitoba Athlete of the Year in 1997. Hay joined Cirque du Soleil’s production of O in 1997 and for three years was one of their lead high aerial acrobats, as well as designing routines. Hay’s credits with Bill Viola include Going Forth by Day and Emergence.