Petaluma native performs aerial dance on ‘America’s Got Talent’

When Haley Viloria stepped on the stage for her performance on “America’s Got Talent” Tuesday, she told judge Simon Cowell that she was more nervous than she thought she would be.

She also told Cowell that she was from Petaluma, drawing a large cheer from the live audience at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium, where the NBC talent show — now in its 19th season — tapes its audition episodes.

Viloria went on to perform a dazzling aerial routine that she’s perfected from years as a full-time circus performer and coach.

Now living in Miami, Viloria has worked as a featured performer in Cirque Du Soleil’s world-touring productions of “Amaluna” and “Kooza,” and often works with cruise lines to program and cast their circus-style entertainment, according to her LinkedIn profile.

On the “America’s Got Talent” stage, she spun high in the air, at one point upside down, wowing the crowd during her 4-minute segment.

After receiving a standing ovation, Viloria received rave reviews from some of the show’s judges. Sofia Vergara told Viloria her performance was beautiful, and “stopped my heart,” while Heidi Klum said the routine was incredible.

“I really felt you were fighting for a spot here right now,” Klum said.

Unfortunately for Viloria, judge Howie Mandel said he was not wowed by the performance. When Viloria asked Mandel what the routine was missing, he said, “it wasn’t for me.”

Still, Viloria passed the audition with Cowell and the judges giving her three yeses and one no.

This week’s episode was the final auditions week for the show’s 19th season.

After pausing for coverage of the Paris Olympics, the show will begin airing its live competition episodes Aug. 13, where viewers can vote on their favorite acts, followed by live results shows.

Winner of the whole competition wins $1 million.

“America’s Got Talent’” airs at 8 p.m. Tuesdays on NBC. It is also available to stream on Peacock.