Irish dancer Tyler Watkins was born to be on stage with one of her first dance performances at Ipswich Civic Centre at age five years old.
Growing up performing for her mother’s dance studio, Watkins Academy of Irish Dance, Watkins has many fond memories performing at Ipswich Civic Centre.
Watkins said her passion for dance came at a young age and that she was always drawn to a career in the arts.
“I’ve always had a keen interest in the arts and have been a natural performer since a young age,” she said.
“I took drama and dance subjects throughout my schooling years and even studied Fine Arts and Drama at QUT for a year and a half.
“I love being able to share my passion with a live audience, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of performing on stage.”
Although, Watkins said her next leading performance at Ipswich Civic Centre in A Taste of Ireland gives a new meaning to performing on this stage.
“I’m beyond excited to be returning to Ipswich Civic Centre,” she said.
“It’s a full circle moment, as this theatre was where my dreams to be a professional dancer were born.
“I can’t wait to perform in front of my family and friends and show everyone how much I’ve grown and evolved as a performer.”
When speaking about A Taste of Ireland, she said the show offers a glimpse into Irish history.
“A Taste of Ireland is one of the leading Irish dance shows in the Southern Hemisphere,” she said.
“The show really is just that, a taste of Ireland.
“Not only is it a brilliant display of talent that features multiple world champion dancers and some of the best musicians in the world, but it also encapsulates the heart and spirit of the Irish.”
When speaking about the future, Watkins said she has her heart set on an international career in Irish dancing.
“Currently, I’m still competing so I have big goals I want to kick competition-wise,” she said.
“But I’m only just getting started with my professional career as a performer and I plan on riding this A Taste of Ireland journey until I can’t dance anymore.
“We were lucky enough to perform in New York City in 2020, just before COVID-19 hit, so I’d love to be able to tour internationally and explore more of the world with my dancing.”
A Taste of Ireland will be at Ipswich Civic Centre on Friday 23 April.
To book tickets or to find out more click here.
For more information about what’s on at Ipswich Civic Centre visit: www.ipswichciviccentre.com.au
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Community, Culture, Arts and Sport Committee Chair Cr Andrew Fechner said A Taste of Ireland is an opportunity for Ipswich residents to experience international culture right here in Ipswich.
“During COVID-19 we’ve been unable to travel and experience international cultures,” Cr Fechner said.
“This is a wonderful opportunity to experience A Taste of Ireland, right here in our own backyard.
“It’s also a chance for locals to get out and enjoy a great night out, which we’ve been unable to take for granted over the last year.
“A Taste of Ireland delivers exceptional home grown Ipswich talent and we hope residents come out to support our local artists.”
