Centrestage Teacher 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 prestigious 2026 Travel Gang Theatre Educator Scholarship. This scholarship is a highly competitive accolade that recognizes outstanding theatre educators across Australia and New Zealand.

Wilkie is one of ten finalists contending for a transformative opportunity valued at A$14,000. If awarded the scholarship, she will embark on a remarkable journey in January 2026, mentoring 32 aspiring performers, known as the 2026 Aussie All-Stars, at the international Junior Theatre Festival (JTF) in Atlanta, USA.

Scholarship Experience Details

The scholarship experience spans 19 days, commencing with eight days in New York City for rehearsals, Broadway shows, and workshops. This is followed by three days at the festival in Atlanta, culminating with eight days in Los Angeles, where participants will take part in the Disneyland Performing Arts Workshop.

Wilkie, who grew up with Centrestage Youth Theatre, is an accomplished choreographer and director with extensive experience in various productions across Auckland. She holds a Master’s degree in Dance Movement Therapy and is a co-founder of Smoky Mirror Arts Company, an organization dedicated to supporting young people with disabilities. In her current role at Centrestage, she facilitates weekly performing arts classes for students aged 5 to 18, delivering inclusive programs that foster confidence, creativity, and a sense of belonging among young people from diverse backgrounds.

Goals and Aspirations

Wilkie applied for the Travel Gang Theatre Educator Scholarship with the aim of gaining global insights into theatre education. She expressed her desire to learn from industry leaders and return with innovative ideas and international connections tailored for New Zealand’s diverse youth.

The scholarship is delivered in partnership with Music Theatre International (MTI) Australasia, Junior Theatre Festival Australia, and JTF New Zealand. Mike King, co-director of Travel Gang, praised the exceptional quality of this year’s applicants, emphasizing the invaluable contributions these educators make 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 winner of the scholarship will be announced in mid-October 2023. King highlighted the importance of recognizing educators, stating, “We know these teachers rarely, if ever, receive the recognition they deserve for the dedication they provide and the impact they have. The Travel Gang Theatre Educator Scholarship is our way of honouring them on an international platform.”