Celebrating our new Head of Circus Studies  
Get to know Juliana Neves 

At the National Institute of Circus Arts (NICA), we believe in excellence, innovation and leadership. Today, we are thrilled to put the spotlight on Juliana Neves, our Head of Circus Studies. 

Juliana’s story begins in Brazil, where she first trained in gymnastics and classical ballet. Her passion for movement led her into aerial performance, and in 1998 she became the first artist from São Paulo to join Cirque du Soleil, performing as a soloist and main character in Dralion. 

Her artistic journey did not stop there. In Belgium, she spent over a decade with les ballets C de la B, directed by Alain Platel — performing in award-winning works, co-creating circus-dance productions, and refining her vision of what it means to move with intention and imagination. 
 

Leadership Grounded in Experience 

At NICA, Juliana brings more than performance credentials: she brings a deeply reflective, globally informed pedagogy. With more than 30 years in the performing arts, she is committed to nurturing circus artists who are both technically skilled and creatively bold. 

As NICA’s Head of Circus Studies, Juliana will work closely with our education team to design training that is rigorous and future-facing. She’s greatly involved in shaping curriculum, mentoring trainers, and forging partnerships with international circus institutions. 

 
“I am committed to advancing the Institute’s legacy as a world-class centre for contemporary circus education… by fostering greater excellence in technique, creativity, and professional development.” - Juliana Neves  
 

Vision for the Future 

Juliana’s appointment comes at an exciting moment for NICA. As we continue to grow and evolve, she brings a fresh wave of inspiration, innovation, and international perspective.  

Her presence enhances NICA’s role not just as a national leader in circus education, but as a global hub for contemporary circus - a place where artistry, scholarship, and community converge. 

We are honoured to have Juliana Neves guiding our circus programs. Her leadership renews our commitment to excellence, innovation, leadership, welcoming and wonderment.

Head of Circus Juliana Neves and NICA CEO Simona Jobbagy at NICA

 
SBS Portuguese interview: 
https://www.sbs.com.au/language/portuguese/pt/podcast-episode/juliana-neves-inaugura-nova-era-para-o-circo-na-australia-diretora-de-estudos-circenses-da-nica/x64qa7h77  

Published 18 November 2025