14-Year-Old Aerial Acrobat Dazzles Audiences Across Ireland

UPDATE: A remarkable story is unfolding this summer as 14-year-old Isabella Gerbola takes to the skies as an aerial acrobat, captivating audiences across Ireland. While most teenagers are occupied with summer jobs, Isabella is living her dream, performing under the big top with Circus Gerbola.

Isabella, who debuted last year as one of the youngest acrobats in Ireland, has spent her summer holidays dazzling crowds with her aerial acts. “I was born into the circus so I’d like to stay in it,” she shared with the Irish Examiner. Her passion for performance is evident as she continues to impress audiences, young and old, throughout the country.

Isabella has spent years honing her skills, gathering inspiration for her signature moves. Her father, Mikey Gerbola, recalls the extraordinary moment of her birth on January 1, 2011, when he delivered her himself in a 4X4 after a wrong turn. This unforgettable entrance seems to foreshadow her rising star in the circus world.

The third-year student from Athboy Community School expressed her desire for the summer to never end. “When I’m at school all I really want to do is go home to the circus,” she said. Isabella’s commitment to her craft shines through as she embraces the thrill of performing, stating, “I love the buzz I get from the audience when swooping through the air.”

Isabella’s performances are not just about the spotlight; they provide her with a unique opportunity to travel across Ireland. “I really love moving around because you get to see so many places that you wouldn’t normally see,” she explained. Her experiences during COVID-19 highlighted the importance of travel, as she missed visiting new towns and meeting people from all over the globe.

Beyond the performances, Isabella cherishes the connections formed within the circus community. Celebrations of life events, such as Halloween and Christmas parties, have often taken place in the circus ring, creating cherished memories. “It’s really nice to see the ring all lit up with lights,” she recalled.

David Fitzgerald, general manager of Circus Gerbola, praised Isabella, noting her bravery in performing before large crowds. “No matter how many times you practice beforehand, performing in front of a huge crowd is a frightening thing,” he said. Fitzgerald highlighted Isabella’s journey from observing shows as a child to becoming a key performer herself.

As Isabella continues to rise in the circus world, her story serves as an inspiration not only for aspiring performers but for anyone pursuing their dreams. With each performance, she is not just entertaining; she is also carrying forward her family’s legacy in the vibrant world of circus arts.

Isabella Gerbola embodies the spirit of resilience and passion, reminding us all of the joy found in following one’s dreams. As she prepares for more shows throughout the summer, audiences can expect to be mesmerized by her extraordinary talent and dedication to the art of aerial acrobatics.

Stay tuned for more updates on Isabella’s journey as she continues to fly high in the world of circus performance.