Master Lu Yi
Willie Edelston 2026 Circus Coach of the Year

Master Lu Yi stands among the most influential and revered teachers in the history of circus arts—a visionary whose unmatched mastery of traditional Chinese acrobatics reshaped the trajectory of modern circus worldwide. Born and trained in China, Lu Yi rose to prominence with the Nanjing Acrobatic Troupe, ultimately serving as Vice President of the Chinese Acrobatic Association. His early career established him as both an elite performer and a scholar of acrobatic technique, but it was his pedagogical genius that would define his legacy.

In 1990, Lu Yi brought his family to San Francisco, marking a historic cultural exchange that would alter the landscape of Western circus. His arrival introduced a depth of discipline, virtuosity, and philosophical approach to training that had never before been seen in the United States. As a Master Teacher, he combined rigorous technique with clear artistic intention, elevating students through his signature mix of discipline, precision, and profound encouragement.

Lu Yi became a cornerstone of the Circus Center (formerly the Pickle Family Circus School), where he served as both Master Teacher and Artistic Director. Under his guidance, disciplines such as Chinese pole, hoop-jumping, and other classical acrobatic forms became foundational elements of contemporary circus training. Performers he mentored went on to star in Cirque du Soleil and other major productions around the globe, bringing his methods—and his philosophy—to some of the world’s most renowned stages.

Affectionately known as the “Father of Modern Acrobatics” in the West, Lu Yi inspired generations of artists to pursue excellence through perseverance. His phrase “training is bitter” became a mantra for countless students who learned that technical mastery and artistic growth emerge from sustained effort. His life and methodology were documented in the book Training Is Bitter (with student Devin Holt) and the 2016 documentary Bizarre: A Circus Story, both of which celebrate his transformative influence.

Master Lu Yi passed away in October 2023 at age 83, but his imprint on the circus arts endures through every performer and teacher touched by his wisdom. As the 2026 recipient of the Willie Edelston Circus Coach of the Year Award, honored posthumously by the Circus Ring of Fame Foundation, he is recognized not only for his extraordinary technical contributions, but for the spirit, discipline, and humanity he instilled in the global circus community. His legacy continues to rise—strong, balanced, and timeless—much like the acrobats he devoted his life to elevating.