Circus artist & coach
Marissa Shaffer
Artist Bio
Marissa Shaffer (she/they) is a 22-year-old multidisciplinary circus artist from Philadelphia, PA. A longtime theatre performer and competitive rhythmic gymnast, Marissa began circus arts in the fall of 2019.
While pursuing Bachelor’s degrees in Technology Studies and Computer Science at Brown University, they have created, directed, and performed solo and group acts in five full-length shows with Brown Aerial Acrobatics. Marissa spent a year training full time with the San Diego Circus Center Academy in 2025, and has trained and coached at Rhode Island Circus Space and Circus Smirkus.
She specializes in hula hoop, aerial rope, and clowning, but is noted for her versatility within the performing arts, whether it be aerials, improv, contortion, singing, juggling, dance, or theatre. Marissa’s work is deeply rooted in character-driven storytelling, blending physical theatre and emotional nuance with her technical prowess to create performances that resonate with audiences and breathe life into her art.
Marissa is available for performances, creation opportunities, and coaching.
