"The fox knows many things,
but the hedgehog knows one big thing."
The Fox &
The Hedgehog
Portfolio
Step into the suspenseful world of Maria Antonia Stavrou
Maria Antonia Stavrou is a versatile Creative Director with a career in entertainment, neurodivergence coaching, and business consultancy. She excels as a Creative Director at Dominium Vita and a Specialist Practitioner for Neurodivergence at The Joyful Coach. Maria works as a Creative Director for many brands who have excelled in creating strong work ethics under her management. Her journey from global performances to coaching and volunteer work at a psychiatric hospital showcases her diverse talents and compassionate approach.
Podcast interviews
Training courses
Bio
Hailing from the vibrant streets of Bristol, UK, Maria Antonia Stavrou is a renowned director known for her captivating circus style. Delving deep into the human psyche and pushing storytelling boundaries, Maria is the creative force behind some of the most dramatic performances in the field. With a talent for blending reality and illusion, Maria Stavrou's shows offer an exhilarating ride of suspense, immersing audiences in a thrilling exploration of the mind. Leading Sensation Entertainment, her company has been instrumental in bringing forth many of her groundbreaking projects.
My approach
I have always been captivated by the intricacies of suspense and the power of mystery in storytelling. My approach to crafting compelling and unforgettable shows is rooted in my passion for creating intense, thought-provoking, and immersive experiences that leave a lasting impact on the audience. I look forward to continuing to craft gripping stories that challenge, entertain, and push the boundaries of events.
Education
Maria Stavrou’s educational and work journey has equipped her with a deep understanding of the nuances of event management and concept creation, from crafting suspenseful narratives to creating immersive cinematic atmospheres. Her commitment to mastering the art of mystery and suspense is evident in her work and academic accomplishments.
BA(Hons) in Contemporary Circus Circomedia, Bristol Concentration: Circus disciplines (aerial, juggling, acrobatics and balance) alongside classes in physical theatre, movement and devising |
Google Project Management: Professional Certificate Online Coursera Specialisation: Project Management, Change Management, Strategic Thinking Organizational Culture Risk Management, Quality Management, Project Execution |
Association of Stage Pyrotechnics JustFX, London Specialisation Training: Flame Proofing and Fire implications, Maroons, Flash Reports & Concussions and Noise implications, Flashpots, Jets, Gerbs, Robotics, Comets, Mines, Wiring Conventions (Series/Parallel) and Electrical Testing, Risk Assessments and Record Keeping, Law, HSE, Storage and Transport Guidance |
Cognitive Behavioural Therapist Level 3 Association of Psychological Studies Studied CBT course which enhances understanding of cognitive-behavioral therapy through a comprehensive 5-factor approach, integrating emotions, behavior, cognitions, biological factors, and social-environmental aspects for a holistic treatment perspective. |
Tours
2015 - 2019
Festival of the Dead Tour
Theme: Day of the Dead
Role: Creative Director & Head of Entertainment
Performers booked: 12 - 22
Tour Dates per annum: 8 - 15
Multi City Tour
Skills: Ranging from puppeteers, stilt walkers, Aerialists, Cyr Wheel artists, Pyrotechnic shows, Acting
Additional skills required: Choreography and script writing
Technical Support: Stage Manager, Lighting
2015 - 2019
The Big Ice Breaker Freshers
Theme: Winter, Weird and Wonderful, Unexpected, Immersive
Role: Creative Director & Head of Entertainment
Performers booked: 8 - 12 per city
Tour Dates per annum: 35 locations ave.
Multi City Tour
Skills: Stilt walkers, Dancers, LED, Fire and Grind Artists, Immersive Actors, Mascots
2015 - 2024
Foreverland Tour
Theme: Festival, Psychedelic, Immersive
Role: Creative Director & Head of Entertainment
Performers booked: 12 - 18 per city
Tour Dates per annum: 20 - 35
Multi City Tour
Skills: Stilt walkers, Dancers, LED, Fire and Grind Artists, Immersive Actors
Corporate
2021
Twisted Alice In Wonderland
Corporate event brief: Alice in Wonderland
Team booked: Abrobats, Contortionist, Sword Swallower, Opera singer, Trapeze Artist, Hand Balance, Aerialist, Stilt Walkers, Compare, MUA’s
Special Props brought: Aerial Giant Key for performer to hang from
Technical Support: Aerial Rigger, Stage Manager
2022
Moulin Rouge Theme
Corporate Event Brief: Moulin Rouge
Team booked: Aerialist, Singer, Cabaret Dance Troupe, Magician, Host/Singer, Choreography from the film, Songs all from the film
Specialist Props Brought: Giant LED Aerial love heart frame
Technical Support: Aerial Rigger, Stage Manager, Team manager
2023
The Rio Carnival
Corporate event brief: Rio Carnival
Team booked: Stunt/Trick footballer, Rio Dancers, Stilt walkers, Aerialist who hangs by the teeth, Contortionist
Speciality Props brought: Giant UV Feather fans for aerialist
Technical Support: Aerial Rigger, Stage Manager
One Time Events
2017
Miss Moneypennys - At The Proms
Event Brief: LGBTQ+ excessive
Team booked: Singer, Cabaret Dance Troupe, Drag Queen, Circus Performers
Total Performers: 62
A 60-piece orchestra fully live (no backing tracks) from the Symphony hall accompanied by singers Sonique, Lisa Millett, Rita Campbell & Amrick Channa. Live Performances across a 2 hours orchestral rendition of 90s club classics
Technical Support: Stage Manager, Dresser & Assistant
2020
Clapham Grand Fundraiser
Volunteered to run a fundraiers to aid in the prevention of a well loved and staple part of London’s show scene - The Clapham Grand. We raised in total over £130K across different teams to keep the venue afloat over Covid. We used Twitch live stream, AV Equipment and Specialist cameras for live streaming. Procured teams to head up each prong. Oversaw the entire day whilst also hosting the stream.
Team booked: 38 performers with various skills
Technical and Media Team: PERCEPTION LIVE Ltd
2023
Ciroc Party
Corporate Event Brief: Blue and White Theme - High Energy and Nightclub Friendly
Team booked: Stilt walkers, Magician, Laser Show, Dancers, Hand Balancer, Pixel Shows, LED Hula Hoops, LED Performers, Contortionist
Technical Support: Stage Manager, Make up and Hair Artist
Testimonials
Richard Burton
Event Co-Owner - Dominium Vita Events
“Last night was another level [we are] creating something special here”
“Thank you again. You made mine and Emma’s day painless. You clubbed in and solve all the issues we occurred with ease.
Can’t thank you enough.“
Connor Scanlan
Owner & Founder - The Foreverland Tour
I have been working closely with Maria for around 6 years now. From the very first day we begun working Maria has always brought a passion and enthusiasm to the table. She will move heaven and earth to get you what you need or solve problems late at night or in the final hour. I highly recommend Maria and her agency for your entertainment needs.
Jimmy Valsan
HR Director - Meshico
Having collaborated with Maria on numerous high-energy projects, I have seen firsthand their exceptional creativity, strategic vision, and unparalleled passion for nightlife entertainment.
Maria has a unique talent for transforming ordinary spaces into extraordinary experiences. Whether it's a themed event, a grand opening, or a weekly club night, Maria brings a fresh perspective and an unmatched level of creativity to every project.
In addition to her creative prowess, she is a natural leader. What sets Maria apart is her dedication to creating experiences that not only entertain but also connect people. I wholeheartedly recommend Maria for any role that requires visionary thinking, impeccable execution, and a passion for creating unforgettable nightlife experiences.
Hannah B.
Private Client
From the initial quote right up to the day Sensation were really easy to work with, friendly and professional. I've never booked this kind of thing before so it was great to have a company which had a lot of understanding of what I was looking for.The performers on the day were amazing! They were professional but also fun and really made the whole day so much more magical. Would recommend for anyone looking for entertainment
Pitch Decks and Additional Themes
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Accolades
Press
Levelling Up Your Life and Relationships
New York Weekly
Maria Stavrou emphasizes the importance of ambitious goal-setting, mutual accountability, effective communication, and concerted effort in building a strong relationship foundation.
Top 10 Coaches To Help You Thrive In 2021
Thrive Global
Millions of individuals across the globe are discovering abundance in their professional and personal lives. The secret behind their success is not a genie in a bottle nor a four-leaf clover.
Mega Events Music & Travel
Event Production Company
Award winning 2023 Event Promoter of the year - Maria worked alongside them for almost a decade on various shows like Festival of the Dead, Spring Break Amsterdam, Foreverland and more!
