Catherine Wait is an independent, multidisciplinary circus and physical theatre artist, who performs under the mononym, Missy.
Based in Sydney (Wangal/Gadigal), she has specialised in aerials, acrobatics and pole for more than two decades.
About me
Writing an ‘about me’ is challenging because, like many people working freelance in the arts, I do many things.
I am an awarding-winning circus performer working across a range of genres and disciplines, I am an instructor, a producer, a rigger, a choreographer, a creative facilitator, and a costumier. I’ve also worked as a stage manager, edited music and videos, made props and probably picked up a few other skills along the way.
My qualifications include -
Bachelor of Art History and Theory from the College of Fine Arts, UNSW
Certificate III in Group Fitness from The Australian Institute of Fitness
Basic Rigging through Safe Work New South Wales.
Performer
With a background in gymnastics and dance, I stumbled upon circus arts whilst completing my degree in Art History and Theory. It completely changed the course of my life.
Starting out with pole dancing, I extended my repertoire to include lyra/aerial hoop, silks, harness, handstands, double trapeze and duo acro.
Not satisfied being pigeon holed into one genre, I have graced stages big and small to a diverse audience. I have collaborated in ensemble shows, creates feature length solo work, provided entertainment for large scale corporate events and spot numbers for small cabaret bars both in Australian and internationally.
Wanting to create more opportunities, I produced my first show in 2006. Since then, alongside a whole host of other performance adventures, I’ve created, produced and performed four major works.
Interior Motives
2026
Sydney Fringe - Adelaide Tour Ready Award 2026
Sydney Fringe - Weekly Award Best In Circus 2026
Tender
2022 - 2025
Sydney Fringe - Best in Circus 2024
void (the call and response)
2019
Love, Loss & Lattes
2014 - 2017
Sydney Fringe - Best In Circus 2016
SYNZ Award 2016
Adelaide Fringe - High Commendation 2015