In partnership with the Princess Grace Foundation-USA, Monaco Life proudly presents a monthly series spotlighting the lives and artistic contributions of the Foundation’s remarkable Award winners.
For actress, writer, and Sisseton Wahpeton Dakota artist Isabella Star LaBlanc, storytelling is an act of connection. Whether performing on stage, appearing on screen, or lending her voice to audiobooks, she is drawn to work that challenges her creatively while bringing honesty, empathy, and authentic representation to audiences.
After receiving a Princess Grace Honoraria in 2021, nominated by McCarter Theatre Center, LaBlanc has continued to build a dynamic career across theater, television, and film, championing Indigenous stories and expanding opportunities for Native artists. With upcoming projects including Nice Fish, directed by and starring Mark Rylance alongside Michelle Williams, she remains committed to pursuing work that inspires curiosity, community, and joy.
In this conversation, LaBlanc reflects on the impact of the Princess Grace Foundation, how her Dakota heritage shapes her approach to storytelling, the importance of authentic Indigenous representation, and why the most meaningful creative journeys begin by embracing the unknown.
Looking back, what did receiving the Princess Grace Honoraria mean to you personally, and how has that support influenced your career since?
In 2021, I had just been cast in my first TV show and was living in a new city, not sure when or if theater would ever be back to what it was pre-2020. To be honored as a theater artist then, first as a nomination from McCarter, and then as the Honoraria from Princess Grace, felt like a reminder to stay the course. It was invaluable to know I had folks who believed in me, and to be reminded to hold tight to what theater had taught me: flexibility, craft, and community.
Let’s go back to the beginning. Growing up in Minnesota, when did storytelling first become a meaningful form of expression for you?
I don’t think I would’ve been an actor if I hadn’t grown up where I did. Being from Minnesota, theater, spoken word, and dance were intrinsically part of our lives. I don’t remember a time without them and I’m grateful for that.
As a proud Sisseton Wahpeton Dakota artist, how has your cultural heritage shaped your perspective as a performer and the stories you’re drawn to tell?
Dakota translates to “The Friendly People” and I’ve always been told that to be Dakota is to be a good relative. For me, being an artist is a way to take care of each other.
Throughout your career, you’ve championed authentic Indigenous representation. How have you seen conversations around representation evolve, and what progress would you still like to see?
Sometimes I still can’t believe how many Indigenous stories have been produced recently. I’m hopeful and excited that it will only continue to expand. Indigenous people are everywhere! I’d love to see our media reflect that.
Your work spans theater, television, film, and audiobook narration. What have these different mediums taught you about the many ways stories can connect with audiences?
I’m lucky that my toolbox is ever evolving and I can always draw on what I’ve learned in one medium to help me round out another. It’s an important reminder that really all an audience cares about is honesty, you just have to figure out how best to get there.
How do you decide which roles or projects resonate with you personally and artistically?
I like for each new project to require something I don’t know if I can do yet.
What advice would you give to young Indigenous artists hoping to build careers in the performing arts, particularly those who may not see a traditional path into the industry?
Focus on how you want the work to make you feel and follow that wherever it takes you.
Have you ever visited Monaco? What would your ideal day in the Principality look like?
I’ve never been to Monaco but I dream about it! I’d love to see a performance at the Théâtre Princesse Grace.
What stories or creative challenges are inspiring you most right now, and what can audiences look forward to next?
I’m very inspired by anything that’s going to make us laugh right now. Next I’ll be working on the feature film Nice Fish directed and starring Mark Rylance, alongside Michelle Williams.
Princess Grace believed deeply in supporting emerging artists. Why do you think programs like the Princess Grace Awards remain so important today?
Having a career as an artist requires having a community to hold you up along the way. The Princess Grace Awards serve as a vital community to emerging artists.
And finally, if you could speak directly to your younger self, what would you tell her about the journey ahead?
I’d tell her to be patient, stay present, and to learn how to pack a suitcase really quickly.
Follow Isabella Star LaBlanc on Instagram @isabellalablanc.
Stay updated with Monaco Life: Sign up for our free newsletter, listen to our podcast on Spotify, and follow us across Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and TikTok.
Photo credit: Nicole Feest
