Benjamin Sota

Benjamin Sota is an Associate Professor in the Department of Theatre at Coastal Carolina University. He is the founding artistic director of Zany Umbrella Circus, a physical theatre company established in 2002 that has toured nationally and internationally.

Education

• M.F.A. in Directing from the University of Hawai’i at Manoa
• M.F.A. in Physical Theatre from Accademia dell’Arte
• B.F.A. in Theatre from the University of Pittsburgh

His research and creative work focus on physical theatre, circus arts, and movement-based performance, blending techniques from traditional theatre, circus, and international storytelling traditions. His expertise spans directing, acting, and movement instruction, informed by formal training at institutions like Flic Circus School (Italy), San Francisco Circus Center, and Berliner Schule für Schauspiel (Germany).

Benjamin has received significant funding and recognition, including the Jacob K. Javits fellowship, the Stainer Arts Award, the Eben Demarest Trust, and grants from foundations such as Heinz, Grable, Mellon, and City Parks Foundation. He has served as a guest instructor at institutions including Salisbury University, University of Hawai’i at Manoa, University of Pittsburgh, and Carnegie Mellon University.