The Bilak Brothers – Gymnastic Twin Performers Extraordinaire

This incredible performance comes from the semi-final of France’s Got Talent (La France a Un Incroyable Talent). The Bilak Brothers - Andrii and Misha - are an international twin acrobatic duo delivering high-level hand-to-hand, aerial and contemporary circus performances. Fraternal twin brothers, they are known for combining extreme physical control with elegant, often minimalist staging. In their early years, they began performances fully costumed; today, thanks to a pair of strategically flesh-coloured briefs, they appear to have taken the bold artistic decision to perform almost naked — an illusion that never fails to provoke a sharp intake of breath from the audience.  So, as well as the staging, their costumes are also minimal. You have to give the punters what they want, after all!

The twin acrobats have appeared on major international television productions, including multiple Got Talent franchises across Europe (including this one from France) and perform regularly on world-class stages, luxury cruise lines, and premium cabaret venues. Their experience ranges from headline cabaret productions and high-profile gala events to large-scale theatrical shows, and they are widely recognised for their physical precision, visual storytelling, and remarkable adaptability.  This particular performance is a great showcase for their skills. You can see more pictures (including pictures of them doing their acrobatics in front of some of Europe's major landmarks) on their Instagram.

These performers make their act look so effortless that it is easy, perhaps, to sit back and think that it must be so.  However, if I try to think of doing this kind of thing myself, I know a visit to the local Accident and Emergency Unit would be imminent. Plus I don’t think my brother would agree to anything remotely like this. There would be an argument about who was going to balance on the other’s head.  I just had a thought – what must be the pressure on the twin below in that part of the act?  The weight of a whole body on one’s head must be very, very difficult to withstand, let alone participating in the balance of two bodies.  It hurts my head just thinking about it!

Watch the full performance on France's Got Talent below: