Hula hoops have transcended their association solely with children, experiencing a resurgence among adults in recent years as a means of showcasing agility, having fun, and engaging in physical activity. For Katie Wilson, also known as Katie Sunshine, hula hooping has evolved into a profitable form of performance art.
Her journey into the world of hula hooping took a significant turn when a YouTube video she posted in 2013 unexpectedly went viral, opening up opportunities for her to showcase her skills across the country.
Wilson’s hula hooping prowess has led her to diverse platforms, including appearing in Jerrod Neimann’s “Drink to That All Night” music video, delivering a fire hula hoop act on ABC’s The Gong Show alongside celebrity judges Jack Black, Will Arnett, and Jennifer Aniston, securing a role as a hula hoop girl in a Greg Garcia sitcom pilot for CBS, and featuring in The Record Co.’s “Rita Mae Young” music video while performing live with the band nationwide. Furthermore, she collaborated with Arkansas Circus Arts at the 2020 World Expo in Dubai.
Despite gaining recognition for her skills, Wilson never envisioned herself becoming a professional dancer. Contrary to popular assumption, she did not have a background in dance, cheerleading, or gymnastics. Her hula hooping journey began in adulthood purely out of a passion for the activity, eventually leading to an all-consuming dedication.
With a Bachelor of Art focusing on painting and photography from the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville and a Master of Art in art education from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Wilson’s artistic background has significantly influenced her hula hooping endeavors.
One of her innovative creations is a paint-filled hula hoop that she uses to produce unique paintings. By harnessing the centrifugal force generated while hula hooping, the paint splatters onto canvases surrounding her, seamlessly blending her love for hula hooping and painting.
As a dedicated performing artist, Wilson maintains a rigorous training regimen to stay physically fit for the demanding nature of hula hooping. Beyond the physical aspect, she meticulously choreographs routines, rehearses, devises narratives for performances, and designs costumes. However, she emphasizes that the actual performance constitutes only a fraction of her responsibilities. Managing her bookings, responding to inquiries, organizing travel arrangements, and maintaining an online presence are integral parts of her routine.
Self-motivation plays a pivotal role in her success, as she navigates the dual roles of performer and manager. Attributes like organizational skills, reliability, and a personable demeanor are equally crucial in her line of work. Wilson acknowledges the importance of striking a balance between work and personal life, recognizing the significance of self-care and setting boundaries to prevent burnout.
In addition to her performance career, Wilson holds a nine-to-five job as a destination services specialist at the Little Rock Convention and Visitors Bureau. Her days are a blend of work commitments, rehearsals, costume planning, and routine practice, reflecting her unwavering dedication to her craft.
Collaborating with Arkansas Circus Arts in North Little Rock has provided her with opportunities to engage with a diverse array of artists, fostering a community of creativity and inspiration. Wilson cherishes the relationships she has built within the artistic community, highlighting the invaluable support and encouragement she receives.
For aspiring performers looking to follow a similar path, Wilson advises stepping out of one’s comfort zone by showcasing talent through public performances or social media presence. Despite the challenges and demanding schedule, the gratification of delivering a stellar live performance remains a driving force for her.
While she envisions continuing her hula hooping journey for as long as possible, Wilson expresses an interest in exploring filmmaking as a future endeavor. Embracing the creative realm behind the camera could potentially offer her a seamless transition while staying connected to her passion for hula hooping and performance art.