Who is Ella Giammichele?
I’m a 23-year-old from Brisbane, Queensland, and a full-time professional Irish dancer. I have toured with Pace Live and its productions in Australia, New Zealand, America, Canada, UK and Ireland. Outside of performing, I enjoy going to the beach and doing Pilates. I also love unwinding with a bit of adult colouring or I could read a book for hours.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I don’t tend to spend much time thinking what I would do differently. Instead, I try to focus on how I can grow as a person and the way I treat others. If there is one thing that I would change, it would be to slow down and be more present.
Sometimes I wish I had taken time to truly appreciate how far I’ve come, as a dancer and person. I’m incredibly grateful for where I am, the experiences I’ve had, and everything I’ve achieved, and I want to be better at embracing those moments as they happen.
Who inspires you and why?
I’m incredibly inspired by my fellow cast mates on tour. We all experience the highs and challenges of this job together, and how demanding it can be. But despite that, everyone constantly shows up with a positive attitude, supports one another and always puts their best foot forward (literally). Their professionalism and passion are a constant reminder of how lucky we are to do what we love.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I hope to make a difference by taking audiences on a journey through performing and creating theatre that they’ll remember. In the future, I’d also love to combine the experiences I’ve gained through dance with a career in allied health, helping people improve their health and wellbeing. Above all, I believe kindness is one of the simplest and most meaningful ways we can all make a positive difference in the world.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
My absolute favourite holiday destination is a beautiful little beach town called Agnes Water in Queensland. I’ve been going with my family since I was very small and I love everything about it. The fresh air, the sunshine and the relaxed pace of life is somewhere I can truly switch off, recharge and enjoy the company around me.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
I’d take them to South Bank and maybe Felons as well. Both have such a vibrant atmospheres, beautiful river views, great restaurants, and great company. It always has a laid-back, welcoming feel and is somewhere I enjoy sharing with friends.
What are you currently reading?
At the moment, I’m reading the Crescent City Series. Fantasy is one of my favourite genres of reading. There is something so special about escaping into another world for a while. It’s the perfect way for me to switch off and unwind.
What are you currently listening to?
At the moment, I’ve been listening to a lot of Olivia Dean. Her music has such a warm, soulful sound, and is always a favourite in the dressing room. I enjoy listening to her music before a show and is the perfect way to unwind and get into the right headspace.
Happiness is?
Spending quality time with the family and friends I love, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Through touring I’ve made such beautiful connections from being able to perform for audiences around the world, share moments with people from different places and have a job that I’m passionate about.
What does the future hold for you?
I hope to continue touring and performing, connecting with audiences and growing as an artist as much as I can. At the same time, I’m excited to go back to my studies. I would like to help people improve their health and I’m looking forward to seeing where this next chapter takes me.
Ella can be seen in A Taste of Ireland: The Irish Music & Dance Sensation – which will be presented at selected venues across Queensland. For more information, including performance dates and venues, visit: www.atasteofirelandshow.com for details.
Image: Ella Giammichele (supplied)