Get ready for some clown chaos, playful visual storytelling, and circus fun at Deaffest 2026!
Meet the Deaf clownettes Jennifer Manning (Canada) and Anabela Canica (France), stepping into the ring with UK circus artist Terry Brand to bring you something truly special – watch their video here!
Together, they are the Cirque Trio – ready to entertain, teach, laugh, and play their way into your hearts. Expect laughter, movement, visual storytelling, and plenty of circus magic as they lead an exciting workshop:
10:00am – 3:00pm: Play in Motion with The Cirque Trio
Courtyard, University of Wolverhampton
Suitable for ages 3 and over.
Move. Clown. Spin. Laugh. The Cirque Trio bring together imaginative circus skills, playful clowning and expressive movement in a vibrant circus experience. This dynamic, hands-on workshop invites participants to experiment with new skills, stretch their creativity and build confidence.
Plus, don’t miss Jennifer and Anabela’s show!
12:00pm – 12:15pm: CONEXIONIS
Courtyard, University of Wolverhampton
Suitable for all ages and families
A fully visual clown performance by Jennifer and Anabela. It tells the story of two clownettes – a fairy and an elf. As the fairy practices casting spells on the elf, the audience is treated to a rich display of emotions through engaging and expressive visual storytelling.
Deafblind audience members will have the opportunity to meet and interact with the performers before the performance.
Anabela Canica is a Deaf actress and clown specialising in French Sign Language and iconic language. Trained at the University of Visual and Performing Arts in Toulouse, she creates and performs shows that blend poetry, clowning, and visual theatre. She collaborates with companies such as ACT’S and Danse des Signes, and leads mime and body expression workshops for children. Her practice explores the body, gesture, and play, at the crossroads of theatre, clowning, and visual performance.
Jennifer Manning is a Deaf multidisciplinary artist from Québec, working across theatre, visual arts, and performance. Her practice is rooted in physical expression and visual storytelling. After relaunching her career in 2018, she has been active in both Canadian and international artistic spaces. She advocates for accessibility and inclusive arts, creating work that bridges Deaf and hearing worlds.
Terry Brand is a Deaf circus skills practitioner and workshop leader, delivering dynamic, inclusive sessions for young people in a variety of settings, including schools and festivals. His workshops build confidence and coordination through poi spinning, juggling, plate spinning, and more – creating a supportive space where everyone can succeed, have fun, and discover new talents.
Deaffest 