Who is Isabella Masters?
I’m a professional Irish dancer from Sydney, currently touring in A Celtic Christmas by A Taste of Ireland. I’ve trained in Irish dance since I was two, alongside ballet, jazz, tap, lyrical and acro, and now split my time between performing, teaching, and studying a Bachelor of Exercise & Sports Science. I’m passionate about movement, performance, and helping people feel strong, capable, and confident in their bodies.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I’d love to work in athlete wellbeing and sports rehabilitation. Dancing has taught me so much about resilience, injury, recovery, and mental performance, and I’m increasingly drawn to sports psychology. One day I’d love to support young athletes and performers, especially dancers, in developing both physical and psychological confidence throughout their careers.
Who inspires you and why?
My students inspire me constantly. Watching them arrive eager to learn reminds me of where I started, their curiosity and joy keep me grounded. And of course, my family, especially my mum, aunty and grandmother who have trained me, believed in me, and supported every performance, competition, and big dream without hesitation.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Empower and encourage young people to move. Dance has shaped my life in every way through discipline, confidence, community, and creativity. I believe deeply in the role of movement for physical and mental wellbeing. If I can help someone build self-belief or achieve something they thought was out of reach, that’s the impact I want to make.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Anywhere warm by the water, or a busy city with great nightlife and culture. I love places that feel alive, either with sunshine or energy.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Sydney Harbour is always first, the views from Blues Point Reserve of the Bridge and Opera House are unbeatable. Then Opera Bar for a drink, Jam Bar for something fun, and PJ O’Brien’s for live music and a bit of craic.
What are you currently reading?
A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara. It follows four friends building their lives in New York and explores their friendships, challenges, and personal growth. It’s beautifully written, very moving, and one of those books that really pulls you into the characters’ world and stays with you long after you put it down.
What are you currently listening to?
I’ve been listening to a lot of Olivia Dean lately and I’ve loved her music for a long time. Her lyrics feel honest and warm, and she has this way of making life sound poetic. Her music is perfect for unwinding after training and shows. It’s been so exciting watching her grow in popularity and seeing more people discover what an incredible artist she is.
Happiness is?
A full theatre, that quiet moment before the music begins, and knowing you’re exactly where you’re meant to be. Also a good coffee, a sunny morning, and laughing with people you love until your stomach hurts.
What does the future hold for you?
More performing, more travel, and hopefully a career that blends dance with sports science, athlete health, and mentoring the next generation. I’m currently studying at university and would love to pursue sports psychology to support performers and athletes both physically and mentally.
Isabella can be seen in A Celtic Christmas by A Taste of Ireland – which will be presented at the Canberra Theatre Centre (12 December), Theatre Royal Hobart (14 December), Frankston Arts Centre (17 December), Geelong Arts Centre, (18 December), Her Majesty’s Theatre Adelaide (20 December), State Theatre Sydney (22 December) and HOTA Gold Coast (23 December). For more information, visit: www.atasteofirelandshow.com for details.
Image: Isabella Masters (supplied)