Centrestage Educator Louise Wilkie Named Finalist for Prestigious Scholarship

Louise Wilkie, a dedicated performing arts educator from Centrestage Youth Theatre in Ōrewa, has been selected as a finalist for the 2026 Travel Gang Theatre Educator Scholarship. This prestigious award recognizes exceptional theatre educators in Australia and New Zealand, and Wilkie stands out among ten finalists competing for a life-changing experience valued at A$14,000.

If awarded the scholarship, Wilkie will embark on an enriching journey in January 2026, where she will mentor 32 aspiring performers from Australia, known as the 2026 Aussie All-Stars, at the international Junior Theatre Festival (JTF) in Atlanta, USA. The scholarship experience spans 19 days, beginning with eight days in New York City for rehearsals, Broadway shows, and workshops. Following this, participants will spend three days at the festival in Atlanta, capped off with eight days in Los Angeles, including a special session at the Disneyland Performing Arts Workshop.

Wilkie’s Background and Vision

Wilkie’s connection to Centrestage Youth Theatre is profound. Having grown up within the organization, she has gained extensive experience as a choreographer and director, contributing to numerous productions across Auckland. She holds a Master’s degree in Dance Movement Therapy and is a co-founder of Smoky Mirror Arts Company, which focuses on supporting rangatahi with disabilities.

At Centrestage, Wilkie leads weekly performing arts classes for students aged 5 to 18, striving to create inclusive programs that foster confidence, creativity, and a sense of belonging among young people from various backgrounds and abilities. Her motivation to apply for the Travel Gang Theatre Educator Scholarship stems from a desire to gain global insights into theatre education. She aims to learn from industry leaders and hopes to return with innovative ideas and valuable international connections to enhance New Zealand’s diverse youth theatre scene.

Acknowledgment of Excellence in Theatre Education

The Travel Gang Theatre Educator Scholarship is a collaborative effort involving Music Theatre International (MTI) Australasia, Junior Theatre Festival Australia, and JTF New Zealand. Co-director Mike King highlighted the exceptional quality of applicants this year, commending the ten finalists for their significant contributions to the performing arts community.

“These educators foster innovation and growth in their communities. This scholarship is about honouring their impact,” King stated.

The final scholarship recipient will be announced in mid-October. King emphasized the importance of recognizing these dedicated educators, noting that they often go unacknowledged for their commitment and influence. “The Travel Gang Theatre Educator Scholarship is our way of honouring them on an international platform,” he added.

As anticipation builds for the announcement, Wilkie’s journey exemplifies the dedication and passion present in the world of theatre education, inspiring both her students and her peers.