Meet Isabela Gaya | Actress & Performer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Isabela Gaya and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Isabela, how do you think about risk?
Moving from Mexico to New York City was one of the biggest risks I’ve ever taken, both personally and professionally. It meant leaving behind familiarity and comfort to pursue my dreams in a new and daunting environment. However, it was also a risk filled with promise and opportunity.

The risk of moving to NYC opened doors to auditions which led to my first professional booking at the off-broadway show “The Office! a musical parody”.

Moreover, navigating life in a new city taught me resilience, independence, and the importance of embracing change. Every subway ride, every audition, every encounter became a lesson in courage and adaptability.

While the risk of moving to NYC from Mexico was scary, it was also the catalyst for my growth as an actress and as a person. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the greatest rewards come from stepping outside of our comfort zones and embracing the unknown.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
The art of musical theatre is more than just a career for me; it’s my passion. What sets me apart is my dedication, my comedic timing and my Mexican heritage which gives me a unique perspective.

As an actress, and performer, I’m most proud of my ability to inhabit diverse characters and bring them to life with authenticity. Whether it’s a comedic role that brings laughter to the audience or a dramatic performance that moves them to tears, I strive to connect with both my scene partners and the audience.

My journey to where I am today professionally has been anything but easy. It’s been filled with countless auditions, rejections, and moments of self-doubt. But through perseverance and belief in myself, I’ve overcome the challenges that have come my way.

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned along the way is the power of resilience. In an industry as competitive and unpredictable as musical theatre, resilience is essential. It’s about picking yourself up after every setback, learning from each experience, and coming back stronger and more determined than ever.

Another lesson I’ve learned is the importance of authenticity. In a world where it’s easy to get caught up in trends and expectations, staying true to who you are as an artist is essential. You have to embrace your unique voice, perspective, and experiences and allowing them to shine through in your work.

What I want the world to know about me and my story is that being different is not only okay, it’s what sets you apart and propels you forward. Embracing yourself, your uniqueness, and your individuality is the key to unlocking your true potential and achieving your dreams.

My brand is rooted in authenticity, resilience, and a celebration of diversity. I want to inspire others to embrace who they are, to own their differences, and to recognize that it’s those very qualities that will ultimately lead them to where they need to go.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend was visiting the city I would take them first to get breakfast at Russ & Daughters. They have the best bagels and lox in the city, hands down! After that we’d walk the highline and walk over the Little Island to take in the amazing views. Afterwards we would grab lunch at Ellen’s Stardust Diner, for a classic New York experience time filled with musical theatre songs and amazing performers. A New York trip isn’t complete without a visit to Central Park. For dinner, I’d take them to Casa Enrique for the best mole and margaritas in the city. To end the night, we’d go to Papatzul to dance regeatton!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I have to shout out “Wicked” the Broadway musical! Without it I would have never discovered musical theatre. As a little girl, “Wicked” wasn’t just a musical to me; it was a magical gateway to a world where anything was possible. From the moment I first heard the soaring melodies and felt the electricity of the performances, I was spellbound. More than just a spectator, I became an active participant in the world of theatre. I joined drama clubs, auditioned for school productions, and soaked up every ounce of knowledge I could find about the craft. “Wicked” wasn’t just a show I loved; it was the catalyst that set me on a path towards realizing my own dreams of performing onstage.

So, to the creators of “Wicked” and everyone who brought this magical world to life, I owe a debt of gratitude that words can’t fully express. Your artistry didn’t just entertain me; it inspired me, fueled my imagination, and set me on a course towards fulfilling my own dreams. For that, I will be forever grateful.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gayaisa/?hl=es

Other: tik tok (43.7K followers): https://www.tiktok.com/@isa.gaya

Image Credits
1. Michael Kushner 2. NYFA 3. NYFA 4. NYFA 5. NYFA 6. NYFA 7. NYFA 8. The Office! a musical parody