MARIANNA DE SANCTIScircus artist, performer, teacher and artistic direction
Bio
Born on the first day of autumn 1988, under the sign of Libra (cusp with Virgo), Marianna grew up by the sea in southern Italy, shaded by a scorching sun and swept by strong winds, shaped by a southern mentality that is not easy to bear. She left home early to pursue her future.
After exploring many paths, Marianna discovered the hula hoop, which she has been devoted to for over 17 years — a partnership that will likely last a lifetime. She studied at the circus school FLIC in Italy (2008–2010) and then at LE LIDO in France (2010–2012). What started as a hobby became her profession: for the past 11 years, she has been earning her living through her unique style, where the simple hula hoop ride sometimes gives way to poetic and conceptual explorations.
She has collaborated with companies such as Gandini Juggling, Gynoïdes, La Barque Acide, and Cie Nadere Art Vivants. Currently, she works with Martin Zimmerman and Cie d’Elles, and develops her own projects: the solo show MOTHER.WOMAN.ARTIST and HOOPX8, a collective creation with CIE AVEC MOI involving eight hoopers.
Marianna performs in festivals and cabarets such as GOP and Flic Flac, presenting both comic and poetic acts, maintaining her existential duality. She has also participated in TV shows, gaining experience in different media. Recognizing her talent for guiding others, she works as a teacher, art director, and coach, supporting artistic and emotional development.
Above all, Marianna is not only an artist but also a woman and a mother — a combination she embraces as life’s greatest challenge and inspiration.