Who is Isabella Perversi?
Lifelong learner, over thinker, over worker, over dreamer, absolutely no sense of humor, teacher of Pilates and Meditation and Writer/Producer/Actor/Dancer.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
As a kid I only ever wanted to dance, so I suppose if God had blessed me with the body I would be a Ballet dancer. I have also always loved sport and exercise so I had thought at one point I may end up being a physiotherapist. I actually did a year and dropped out because it felt like I was selling my soul to the devil.
Who inspires you and why?
Taika Waititi and Frances McDormand for their film work, Zoe Foster Blake as she seems to be able to do it all and my Mum because she is literally the funniest person I know. Also Ross, my partner and sounding board, who reads and listens to all my ideas, plays, scripts, movies, scenes, nonsense, garbage and says it’s good.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
If I could, I would adopt all of the dogs in all the shelters. Also, clean up the ocean, seriously why is there so much rubbish? Once I found $50 floating in the sea so I suppose that type of rubbish can stay.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Lorne Beach as we have been going there as a family for 17 years. It’s my favourite beach in the world and I love swimming from Pier to Pub, although last summer I saw a shark under the pier but fortunately that hasn’t stopped me… yet!
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
I’d drive them to Mount Dandenong and take them on a hike that they would inevitably hate me for because it is way too steep and I don’t stop for resting or water. Also to Lorne Beach (obvs) for a meal and a wine at the Greek restaurant Ipsos.
What are you currently reading?
I like to read multiple books at once, usually one fiction, a non-fiction and a play or some poetry. Right now it’s One Hundred Days by Alice Pung, Atomic Habits by James Clear and Yerma by Simon Stone (Translated from Lorca).
What are you currently listening to?
Anything by Glass Animals, a lot of classical music while my partner and I eat so we don’t hear each other chew and while running I’m listening to 90’s Pop Hits.
Happiness is?
Swimming in the ocean, almond magic’s (the most wanky coffee order ever), cryptic crosswords, Lorne (see above), peanut butter on anything and everything, avocado on toast and dancing.
What does the future hold for you?
Performing in my new play Our Haunted Places which will be staged next year, finishing writing and starting pre-production of my Web Series 5 First Dates. The release of Friends of Mine a short film I wrote, directed by my partner and hopefully more collaborations with his production company Mad Hatter Films. We want to travel next year to visit Ross’ family in London (fingers crossed) and also get a dog. The future holds big hugs from each and every one of my friends once this lockdown is over. Oh, and maybe call my mum back at some point during all of this.
Isabella has written and performs in What rhymes with orange? presented as part of the Melbourne Fringe Digital On Demand program: 8 – 17 October 2021. For more information, visit: www.melbournefringe.com.au for details.
Image: Isabella Perversi (supplied)