A WORLD first in death-defying stunts and aerial acrobatics was born in Yorkshire in the 1980s under a circus movement called Skinning the Cat.

Now the extraordinary story of the trailblazer who brought it all to life is celebrated in technicolour at a special exhibition.

Rebecca Truman, who founded the UK’s first all-female outdoor aerial company, said she is delighted her story is helping to inspire the next generation of aspiring performers.

The showcase, at the University of Sheffield's National Fairground and Circus Archive, summons the spirit of passion, creativity and endurance of true circus pioneers.

The exhibition is on display until 13 December at the University of Sheffield's Western Bank Library.

placeholder image — The exhibition is on display until 13 December at the University of Sheffield's Western Bank Library.

Ms Truman, who now works in special effects, rig designs and costumes for other circus companies as well as being a practising artist, has helped as co-curator.

“I think it’s tremendously important for young people to learn from what’s happened historically,” she said. “It’s really been quite unexpected and overwhelming.

“To see our story reaching a new audience and inspiring the next generation is wonderful.”

In her mind, said Ms Truman, preserving a collection such as this would see it "gathering dust" somewhere.

Instead, with the archivists and curators, it's brought to life once more.

"They even take the collection into schools and colleges, which has led to young people doing projects inspired by my work," she added.

Skinning the Cat was founded in 1988 and based in Bradford with rehearsals in settings such as the Turkish Baths or the vast space of the Wool Exchange.

Named after a traditional trapeze move, it toured internationally until 2003, designing and performing death-defying stunts on a variety of outdoor rigs.

Some of the original costumes are now preserved in the Victoria and Albert Museum, and the new exhibition explores this story through exhibits, videos and displays.

It is guided by sculptures and poetry inspired by Ms Truman's lived experience, of life in the limelight and when the stage shutters dim.

Several members of the once seven-strong company have already visited, with one spending three hours sharing it with her daughter.

Senior archivist Arantza Barrutia, of the national archives, said it was a true reflection.

'It is always important that the work we do at the archive helps unveil the hidden histories of the popular entertainment sector so often ignored by mainstream narratives," she said.

And to Ms Truman, it's a world worth exploring: “The cheesy thing to say would be to follow your dreams - but I prefer to say think outside the box with your life.

“Whatever that career or direction is that you want to pursue, find a way to do it. You don’t have to fit in or follow others, just find a way to do what you believe in.”

Rope Women, on display until December 13 at the university's Western Bank Library, is free to attend. Ms Truman will be sharing her journey on tours over the weekend of September 12 and 13 as part of the Heritage Open Days festival.