- Supervision of an experienced fire performer and spotter.
- Prior training on fuel safety and fire performance safety.
- Necessary safety equipment and clothing.
- An expert level of experience performing with the fire tool you will use (having practiced with it unlit).
Read the NAFAA Performer Safety Guidelines for points you may not have considered, though no single document should be considered as a comprehensive fire safety and fuel safety education. Below are some common sense warnings to guide your own research about fire safety and fuel safety, and are not to be taken as a comprehensive safety education:
- Do not use explosive fuels. (Gasoline is explosive.) Do plenty of research on the differences between different fuels. If you are unsure which fuel to use, do not attempt to perform.
- Do not leave fuel in open containers while performing. An errant cigarette ash could start a fire.
- Fuel the wick far away from the lighting and performance area.
- Spin excess fuel off of the wick, far away from the lighting and performance area.
- Do not light your own wicks.
- Do not bring freshly extinguished wicks near a fuel container.
- Do not submerge freshly extinguished wicks into fuel.
Sourcing and Setting Up Your Antlers
Antlers are natural objects — each with its own curves, weight, and feel. Most performers use ethically sourced, naturally shed deer or elk antlers purchased from reputable sellers or craft suppliers. With thoughtful care, a well-chosen antler set can last through many burn seasons.
- Leave about two inches between the wick and the antler tip to avoid heat damage
- Secure the clamp at least two inches down the prong
- Wrap the attachment point in silicone tape to protect the bone
- Practice unlit until the flow of the shape feels natural in your hands
When attaching your fire wicks:
Antlers in Performance: The Story They Tell
Fire has always been a centerpiece of festival nights, and antler props amplify that magic. They lend themselves to character work, forest-spirit aesthetics, and performances that feel ceremonial or mythic. Whether you’re dancing at a desert burn, a woodland gathering, or a waterfront show, antlers add an unmistakable presence that feels timeless and alive. They aren’t just tools — they’re characters, creatures, and mood-setters.





















