Centrestage Teacher Louise Wilkie Named Finalist for Prestigious Scholarship

Louise Wilkie, a dedicated performing arts educator from Centrestage Youth Theatre in Ōrewa, has achieved recognition as a finalist for the highly competitive 2026 Travel Gang Theatre Educator Scholarship. This scholarship acknowledges exceptional theatre educators across Australia and New Zealand, with Wilkie selected from a pool of 10 finalists vying for the opportunity to enhance their professional skills and network internationally.

The scholarship, valued at A$14,000, offers a transformative experience for the winner. In January 2026, Wilkie will participate in a journey that includes mentoring 32 aspiring performers, known as the 2026 Aussie All-Stars, at the prestigious Junior Theatre Festival (JTF) in Atlanta, USA. The 19-day programme commences with eight days in New York City, where she will engage in rehearsals, attend Broadway shows, and participate in workshops.

Broadening Horizons in Theatre Education

Following the New York experience, the scholarship includes three days at the JTF in Atlanta, culminating in eight days in Los Angeles. During this final phase, participants will take part in the Disneyland Performing Arts Workshop, further enriching their artistic education.

Wilkie’s background in theatre is extensive. Growing up with Centrestage Youth Theatre, she has honed her skills as a choreographer and director, contributing to numerous productions throughout Auckland. She holds a Master’s degree in Dance Movement Therapy and is a co-founder of Smoky Mirror Arts Company, an initiative that supports rangatahi with disabilities. In her current role, she leads weekly performing arts classes for students aged 5 to 18, fostering inclusive programmes that encourage confidence, creativity, and a sense of belonging among young people from various backgrounds and abilities.

Motivated by a desire to gain global insights into theatre education, Wilkie applied for the Travel Gang Theatre Educator Scholarship. She expressed her hope to learn from industry leaders and to return with fresh ideas and international connections that can be adapted for New Zealand’s diverse youth.

Celebrating Impactful Educators

The Travel Gang Theatre Educator Scholarship is facilitated through a partnership with Music Theatre International (MTI) Australasia, Junior Theatre Festival Australia, and JTF New Zealand. Co-director Mike King commended the high calibre of applicants, highlighting the vital contributions made by the finalists to their local performing arts communities.

“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. He further noted, “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.”

With the announcement of the winner approaching, the spotlight remains on Wilkie and her fellow finalists, as they continue to inspire the next generation of performers through their unwavering commitment to theatre education.