Centrestage Teacher Louise Wilkie Finalist for Prestigious Scholarship

Louise Wilkie, a performing arts educator from Centrestage Youth Theatre in Ōrewa, has been selected as a finalist for the highly esteemed 2026 Travel Gang Theatre Educator Scholarship. This competitive scholarship recognises exceptional theatre educators across Australia and New Zealand, with Wilkie among ten finalists vying for a transformative experience valued at A$14,000.

If she wins, Wilkie will embark on a remarkable journey in January 2026, joining a team of educators to mentor 32 aspiring performers representing Australia as the 2026 Aussie All-Stars at the international Junior Theatre Festival (JTF) in Atlanta, USA. The 19-day scholarship includes eight days in New York City for rehearsals, Broadway shows, and workshops, followed by three days at the festival and concluding with eight days in Los Angeles, featuring the Disneyland Performing Arts Workshop.

Wilkie brings a wealth of experience to her role. Having grown up with Centrestage Youth Theatre, she is an accomplished choreographer and director with numerous productions to her credit throughout Auckland. She holds a Master’s degree in Dance Movement Therapy and is the co-founder of Smoky Mirror Arts Company, which supports young people with disabilities. In her current position, she leads weekly performing arts classes for students aged 5-18, focusing on inclusive programmes that foster confidence, creativity, and a sense of belonging.

Seeking to expand her knowledge of theatre education, Wilkie applied for the Travel Gang Theatre Educator Scholarship to gain insights from global industry leaders. She aims to return with innovative ideas and international connections to enhance theatre education for New Zealand’s diverse youth.

The scholarship is a collaborative initiative between Travel Gang, Music Theatre International (MTI) Australasia, Junior Theatre Festival Australia, and JTF New Zealand. Mike King, co-director of Travel Gang, commended the high calibre of applicants and praised 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 winner of the scholarship will be announced in mid-October 2025.

King highlighted the often-overlooked dedication of theatre educators, emphasizing the importance of recognising their contributions on an international platform. “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,” he added.