Who is Isabelle Champagne-Chittick?
Isabelle Champagne-Chittick grew up in Bega, NSW where she trained in dance and gymnastics from a young age. Performing as part of Fling Physical Theatre for 8 years, she then took on work experience at Brisbane based CIRCA, while in high school. Moving to Melbourne to further her training as part of a Bachelor of Circus Arts at the National Institute of Circus Arts, Isabelle has become an emerging artist within Melbourne’s circus industry. As part of Na Djinang Circus, Isabelle performed in Social Staples in Melbourne Fringe, Catapult Circus Festival, and Adelaide Fringe. She then went on to be a co-creative in Na Djinang’s second work, Common Dissonance.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I really enjoy working in the arts and so if I didn’t perform I would move more into stage management or if not that, teaching.
Who inspires you and why?
Growing up in a small community I was around people who were passionate about their passions whether it was music, photography, gardening or teaching. My parents both loved what they did and that has inspired me to follow what I love.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I would want people to understand that we need to act now on climate change and to welcome refugees to Australia with open arms and hearts.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Anywhere on the South Coast of NSW but I would also love to explore more of Australia someday.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Acland Street St Kilda to get a piece of 100-year-old recipe cheesecake.
What are you currently reading?
Too Much Lip by Melissa Lucashenko
What are you currently listening to?
Emsolation by Em Rusciano, podcast on Spotify!
Happiness is?
Being with my dog and family.
What does the future hold for you?
Hopefully something in the arts surrounded by amazing people who want to explore their shared humanity.
Isabelle performs with Harley Mann in Common Dissonance – a contemporary circus work that aim to explore the harmony and conflict of contemporary Australian reasoning at Theatre Works for a limited season from 17 November 2021. For more information, visit: www.theatreworks.org.au for detail.
Image: Isabelle Champagne-Chittick (supplied)