Last June, at Thermea Spa Village Whitby, Aufgussmeisters from across the country competed for a chance to represent Canada at the Aufguss World Masters (AUFGUSS-WM) in Verona, Italy. Among them was Ritual Artisan Jad Maalouf from Nordik Spa Village Chelsea, who earned his place to perform on the international stage alongside competitors from all over Europe and beyond. Here’s how his first World Masters experience went:
Before the World Masters
How was training for the World Masters? Was it any different from Aufgusshow?
A little bit. There was more pressure and stress, but mostly excitement. I’d already had a sneak peek of what to expect thanks to nationals (Aufgusshow), so I was just nervous to see how much bigger this event would be! I practised more and spent way more time perfecting the light script.
Did you change anything in your Aufguss performance?
Yes! I made some adjustments to the music because I was getting lost in my original number. I organized it better and created new props with the help of some friends. We tried to make them bigger and shinier. You have to, when going from a 90-seat sauna to one that fits 300! One of my friends made me this amazing ladle that I’ll be able to keep as a memory forever.
How was packing for Italy? I know the duo who went to Germany had a lot of suitcases!
It was something… I had to fit all my props in one big suitcase. I was scared they wouldn’t fit, but they did! All my clothes went into my carry-on and handbag. After all, I didn’t need much clothing at the spa. Those last few days before leaving were filled with so much emotion: it was hectic, but in the best way!
During the World Masters
How did it feel arriving in Italy?
It felt super nice getting there and seeing the beautiful scenery outside. It was my first time in Europe! We went straight to Aquardens to practise. I was exhausted by the end of the day and had a great night’s sleep.
How were the stress levels? Do you have a pre-performance ritual to stay calm?
Let’s just say I was all over the place. The Drouin-Hill brothers helped a lot: I couldn’t have done it without them. I also had help from Thorsten, an amazing Aufgussmeister from Austria. Honestly, just breathing was the best thing I could do. I was nervous about how many people were in the sauna!
How did the performance go?
It went well! The energy was great, and I was very emotional. But I was nervous and couldn’t really calm down, so I made some errors. Still, when I finished, I was so proud of myself for actually doing it.
How different was the space and the experience compared to Finlandia in Chelsea or Logga in Whitby?
It’s super different. At nationals, I kind of knew everyone: it felt like a family reunion. But in Italy, I didn’t know anyone. Meeting new people from all around the world was the warmest feeling. The vibe at Aquardens was amazing, it’s full of people who love Aufguss. The rituals happen every 45 minutes, it’s fast paced and loud, which is great! But it’s definitely very different from our home competitions.
After the World Masters
How did Aufgusshow prepare you for the Worlds?
Honestly, I think the only way to prepare for Worlds is to go to Worlds. I learned so much there, things I wouldn’t have learned otherwise. My preparation for next year will be completely different.
Are you happy with the results? Anything you wish you could’ve changed?
Even if I placed low, I’m happy! I was there, and I did it. I didn’t expect to place high after my performance, not because it wasn’t good, but because in the end it always comes down to points. I don’t think I’d change anything; the things I learned for future shows happened during my number.
Any newfound inspiration or discoveries?
Yes! I came home with inspiration for new shows and new tricks—especially throws. Since I’ve been back, I’ve been working on my body movement and musicality. Something that really stuck with me is how important practice is. Since I got back, I’ve been practising every day with 30 minutes to an hour of waving practice!
What are you bringing back home from this experience?
Love, passion, and so much emotion. I’m bringing back motivation: I’ve never been more into Aufguss than now. The people and their passion will always stay in my heart.
So, what’s next?
I want to expand my knowledge of sauna culture, create and work on a new show, and just continue with the passion of Aufguss.
From Chelsea to Whitby to Verona, Jad’s journey is a testament to passion, courage, and growth. His first World Masters experience may have been filled with nerves and new challenges, but it also sparked a deeper love for the art of Aufguss and it’s just the beginning of his adventure.
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