Acrobot
by Daniel Simu
The Acrobot is a groundbreaking performance introducing a self-built robotic acrobat. Through an exciting mix of juggling, acrobatics, and storytelling it pokes at the questions of our post-digital society.
Why would a circus artist build a robot? Can robots be performers? What happens if your creation outshines you?
I think this is one of the funniest things I have seen all year!
Daniel Simu redefines our understanding of collaboration between man and machine - five stars!
It’s quite an amazing project and performance!
PERFORMANCES
Experience a groundbreaking performance where robotics meets acrobatics. This act blends human skill with technology, creating a show unlike anything you’ve seen before. Book now for an unforgettable show!
Shows Available:
- 30-minute show – Ideal for street performances and theaters.
- 7-10 minute act – A dynamic and comedic performance tailored for events and circus shows.
- 2-minute act – Quick and flashy, As seen on America’s Got Talent!
As seen at:
- On TV at Got Talent in various international editions (America, Spain, France, Romania)
- Circusstad Festival in Rotterdam
- ARS Electronica in Linz
SPEAKING
In my keynotes and presentations, I take audiences behind the scenes, exploring the DIY nature of building a performance robot and the challenges of blending technology with acrobatics.
- From Idea to Reality – The inspiration and process of designing a robot for live performance.
- DIY Robotics & Engineering – How creativity and hands-on problem-solving brought Acrobot to life.
- Lessons & Inspiration – Encouraging others to experiment, build, and push creative boundaries.
I've spoken at:
- TEDx Münster
- Emerce Eday (opening kenote)
- Tweakers Developers Conference (opening keynote)
- Universities: Leiden, uTwente, THUAS, TU Delft
WORKSHOPS
In addition to performing and speaking, we also bring the magic of robotics to kids and youth through interactive workshops! These sessions are designed to inspire creativity, problem-solving, and a love for technology.
Control your own mini Acrobot – Learn the basics of robotics, animatronics and performance in a fun and engaging way. Discover how technology and art can work together.
These workshops are perfect for schools, festivals, maker fairs, and science events. No prior experience needed—just curiosity and a willingness to explore!
For workshops in the Netherlands, best to get in touch with our partner Digital Playground
about
Daniel Simu
Daniel Simu is a Dutch interdisciplinary artist with a BA in Circus Arts (London NCCA) and an MSc in Media Technology (Leiden University). He has performed all around the world as a juggler and clown for more than 15 years, and was awarded Best Dutch Juggling Act at the Dutch Juggling Championships 2016.
In 2022, Daniel used his curiousity for technology and performance to build the first Acrobot prototype. It performed 2 amazing shows, and then fell apart. This success motivated him to acquire new skills such as 3d printing, electrical & mechanical engineering, turning him into a self-taught robot builder.
For more information about Daniel's inventions, installations and other performances: DanielSimu.com
Collaborators
The Acrobot would not have gotten where it is today without the help and enthusiasm of dozens of people.
Currently the team consists of:
- Luc van Esch - Dramaturg
- Esmee Van Der Ster - Engineer
- Mink Spaan - Production assistant
- Basti Kuhz - Engineer
- Mila Baumann - Acrobat & animator
Special thanks to our many advisors and past collaborators:
Marit Adriaanse, Ricard Mallafré López, Edwin Dertien, Bram Graafland, Joerdis Cordua, Sebastian Frisch, Ornella Prieto, Rebecca Postmes
Partners
The Acrobot is co-produced by V2_ Lab for Unstable Media and Circusstad festival Rotterdam.
Without these invaluable partners it would not have been possible to initiate this project.
The educational programme is developed with support from Creative Coding Utrecht, and executed by Digital Playground
Additional financial support was received from Amarte and Gemeente Rotterdam
Sponsors
The Acrobot is very grateful to have received material sponsorship from:
Do contact us if you would like to be involved
contact
For bookings, lectures, workshops, contact info@rudi-renner.de
For other inquiries, contact hello@danielsimu.com
Social media:
Youtube @DanielSimu - teasers & technical explanations
Instagram @simu.circus - latest performances, research & fail videos
Are you curious in how robot shows are made? Come chat with us on Discord.
Daniel Simu is based in the Netherlands but performs around the globe.