It looks like magic, but it feels like inner strength.

Two student performers at Riverdale Country School explain how they developed athleticism, mental discipline, and emotional self-awareness through their work on “Pippin.”

The mysterious performance troupe at the center of the show dazzles its audience with dancing, singing, and soaring acrobatics. Part of the magic is created by the ethereal aerialists who perform their stunts suspended from the sky. The performance looks effortless, but it takes strength, grit, and confidence. Two of the aerialists talk about what they learned as they prepared for this role.