Slackline performance at the Women's Ski World Cup, Crans-Montana 2022
In February 2022, following the Beijing Winter Olympics, the world’s top downhill skiers stopped in Crans-Montana for two speed races. Slackline Events was commissioned to create two slackline performances above the audience just before the award ceremonies—a technical challenge in an open field, with no existing infrastructure.
The objectives of the event
The FIS Alpine Ski World Cup in Crans-Montana attracts thousands of spectators to the Valais plateau every year. In 2022, the two women’s downhill races on February 26 and 27 were a particularly anticipated event: the first major speed event following the Beijing Olympics, featuring a field of champions in top form.
For the organizers, the awards ceremony is always a tricky moment: spectators have been standing in the cold for hours, and the wait between the end of the race and the start of the ceremony creates a lull. The goal was clear—to turn this transition into a powerful, visually unforgettable moment that would make the 2022 event one to remember.
Background and Challenges
The finish area at Les Barzettes is a flat, open field. No buildings, no structures, no natural landmarks. Several thousand spectators gathered at the base of the slopes to await the athletes.
It is precisely this kind of challenge that defines Slackline Events expertise Slackline Events creating height from scratch. The team installed masts and a self-supporting structure reaching heights of 10 to 15 meters, transforming an ordinary space into a vertical stage visible from throughout the finish stadium.
The other challenge: timing. The performances had to be scheduled precisely between the end of the races and the start of the official ceremonies. There was no room for error.
Our solution — two shows, two worlds
For both runs, Slackline Events created two distinct shows, tailored to each audience and atmosphere.
Saturday — The Acrobatic Show A dynamic and technically impressive performance, featuring a series of acrobatic moves performed in sequence. Powerful and precise, it is sure to impress a discerning audience that has come to see a high-level athletic performance.
Sunday — the enchanting show *A Whole New World*: the story of a tightrope walker on his wire and a giant, glowing puppet that descends from the stars to meet the audience. A show for all ages, suitable for both children and adults, that captures the winter atmosphere, the snow, the cold, and the magic of the mountains.
Both performances lasted about 20 minutes each. At the end of each show, the skiers made their entrance via zip line directly onto the stage, leading seamlessly into the podium ceremony. It was a smooth transition, with no break in the flow.
Highlights
The contrast between the two days left a particularly strong impression. On Saturday, the acrobatic tension of a performer suspended above the audience. On Sunday, the silence that fell as the luminous puppet began its descent toward the crowd—something the vast majority of the audience had never seen before.
The sequence—from the athletes’ arrival via zip line to the awards ceremony—was universally praised: the event maintained its momentum throughout, with no lulls, and built to a crescendo.
Results and Impact
The audience gave both shows an enthusiastic reception. The format—two different formats over two days, with technical setups invisible to the audience—is exactly what organizers of mountain sports events are looking for: a strong visual impact, seamless logistics, and an affordable price.
[[To be completed — organizer's statement, media coverage, attendance figures if available]]
Tips for organizers of mountain sports events
Organizing an air show at an outdoor sporting event requires planning for a few key points:
Open terrain ≠ obstacle: The absence of existing structures does not prevent the installation of overhead lines. Self-supporting poles make it possible to work on any flat terrain.
Two formats are better than one: Over the course of several days of competition, varying the show’s style (technical vs. magical) keeps returning audiences engaged.
Alignment with the official program: A performance lasting about 20 minutes fits naturally into the schedule before an awards ceremony. It helps pass the time and builds momentum for the event.
Affordable: A freestanding mast structure is significantly less expensive than an installation on a building or permanent structure, without compromising on visual impact.
Winter outdoor safety: Checking the weather conditions in advance and establishing a clear protocol with the organizers remains essential to maintaining the quality of the event.
For this type of project, contact Slackline Events a quote or check out our highline shows for festivals and events.
Conclusion
The 2022 Women’s Ski World Cup in Crans-Montana is a perfect example of what Slackline Events to a mountain sports event: the ability to utilize the vertical space without requiring infrastructure, to create two radically different experiences over two days, and to integrate seamlessly into the official schedule of a major competition.
For a similar event—such as an opening ceremony, festival, sports competition, or après-ski party— check out our case studies or book directly online.
FAQ
What is a slackline performance at a sporting event?
A slackline performance involves setting up a line stretched high in the air, on which one or more performers execute acrobatic moves or perform within a staged setting. At a sporting event such as a World Cup ski competition, it helps pass the time before an official ceremony by treating the audience to a spectacular aerial show.
How can an air show be set up on a site with no infrastructure?
Slackline Events freestanding poles that can reach heights of up to 10–15 meters. This structure can be set up on any flat surface without the need for buildings or existing anchor points. It is the ideal solution for ski finishes, outdoor festival areas, or open urban spaces.
How long does a slackline performance last at a ski event?
At award ceremonies or official events, a 15- to 25-minute performance is standard. This helps fill the gap between the end of the competitions and the start of the awards ceremony, without running over the official schedule.
Can we put on two different shows on two consecutive days?
Yes. Slackline Events formats tailored to every audience. During a competition weekend, an acrobatic performance can be alternated with a staged show (featuring a magical setting, giant puppets, and lighting) to keep returning spectators engaged.
What is the budget for a slackline performance at a World Cup event?
The budget varies depending on the format (solo, duo, giant puppet), duration, and logistics. The self-supporting pole structure is more affordable than other aerial installations. Contact us via the booking form for a quote tailored to your event.
What kinds of mountain sports events are suitable for this type of activity?
Ski World Cups (downhill, super-G, slalom), freeride ski competitions, biathlon events, mountain bike races, and high-altitude sports festivals. Any event with a large crowd and an awards ceremony can incorporate an aerial show. See also our case study on entertainment for ski resorts.
What is a giant light-up puppet in a slackline show?
This is a stage prop manipulated from the wire or from the ground, often depicting a fairy-tale or ethereal character. It descends toward the audience from the height of the wire, creating a striking visual effect that is well-suited to family shows and winter-themed productions. This format was used in Crans-Montana for the Sunday performance.
Is the show suitable for children and families?
Yes. Slackline Events activities for all ages, including a magical show featuring a giant puppet, which is perfect for families. The page on introductory slackline workshops also details the hands-on activities available for children.
Slackline Events be incorporated into the schedule of an official FIS competition?
Yes. The team works directly with the organizers to coordinate the performance with the competition schedule—the end of the race, waiting periods, and the podium ceremony. The performance is integrated in a way that does not interfere with FIS protocols or the athletes’ media obligations.
What other skiing or mountain events have you hosted?
Slackline Events produced performances for several mountain events, including après-ski events in Les Ménuires and entertainment for ski resorts across Europe. For a complete overview, check out our case studies.