General News
19 September, 2025
Issy soars to new heights
SIXTEEN year-old Issy Dean has showcased her aerial talents to an audience of thousands, performing alongside a select group of students last weekend.
The Warrnambool teen was one of just a small handful of chosen artists who performed high above John Cain Arena during last weekend’s State Schools Spectacular.
“It was an amazing experience,” Issy said. “I applied on line for a position as an aerialist after hearing about it from a friend of mine who performed last year, and I was invited to audition.
“We had to show what we could do, both on the ground and in the air, and then I got a call-back audition; from there they chose less than a dozen students to perform.
“The rehearsals were pretty full on, it was a big commitment not just for me but also for mum who drove me down to Melbourne for each of the 28 rehearsals in the lead-up to the event.
“We also spent a full week in Melbourne before last weekend’s performance and trained up to eight or 10 hours each day.”
This year’s Spectacular followed the theme ‘On Air’ – where dreams take flight, friendships shine, and every young voice is heard.
An iconic event on the calendar for 30 years, the Spectacular was once again a breathtaking and heart-warming blend of song, dance and circus – all staged with spectacular lighting, costumes and a 75-piece orchestra.
From pop anthems to powerful ballads, gravity-defying aerial acrobatics to heart-pounding routines, ‘On Air’ thrilled audiences of all ages.
“It was so amazing to not only be a part of such a huge performance, but to be performing high above John Cain Arena; it really was an incredible opportunity and one I’m very grateful for.”
While the sheer size of the production, and the height that she performed at, was all new to Issy, performing aerials is not.
“I’ve been doing aerials (specialising in lyra and silk) for the last 10 years with PhysiPole in Warrnambool.
“We train three to four times a week, depending on classes, and regularly take part in competitions and performances.
“It’s the performances that I really enjoy; I’m actually quite clumsy when I’m on the ground but up in the air is where I’m most comfortable.”
While others may shy away from performing at such heights, Issy is not afraid to climb.
“I feel quite safe up there; I seem to be more coordinated off the ground than on it.
“I love learning new skills and performing.”
When not training at the PhysiPole studio or at home, Issy also enjoys performing as part of The Flying Flamingos.
“We (the Flamingos) have already performed several times at Gateway Plaza and hopefully we have the opportunity to do more in the near future,” Issy said.
“I really enjoy performing and hope to one day have a career in the performing arts.”
* It’s anticipated this year’s State Schools Spectacular will be televised on Channel 7 on Friday, December 19.
