Centrestage Teacher Named Finalist for Prestigious Scholarship

Louise Wilkie, a dedicated performing arts educator from Centrestage Youth Theatre in Ōrewa, has been named a finalist for the highly sought-after 2026 Travel Gang Theatre Educator Scholarship. This prestigious award recognises exceptional theatre educators throughout Australia and New Zealand.

Wilkie stands out as one of ten finalists competing for a transformative opportunity valued at A$14,000. If selected as the winner, she will embark on a unique journey in January 2026, participating as a mentor for 32 aspiring performers, collectively known as the 2026 Aussie All-Stars, at the international Junior Theatre Festival (JTF) in Atlanta, USA.

Experience of a Lifetime Awaits

The scholarship offers an extensive 19-day experience, beginning with an eight-day stay in New York City. During this time, participants will engage in rehearsals, attend Broadway shows, and partake in educational workshops. This is followed by three days at the festival in Atlanta, culminating in another eight days in Los Angeles, which includes participation in the Disneyland Performing Arts Workshop.

Having grown up with Centrestage Youth Theatre, Wilkie is no stranger to the performing arts. She has extensive experience as a choreographer and director, contributing to numerous productions across Auckland. With a Master’s degree in Dance Movement Therapy, Wilkie is also a co-founder of Smoky Mirror Arts Company, an organisation dedicated to supporting rangatahi with disabilities.

Commitment to Inclusive Education

In her current role at Centrestage Youth Theatre, Wilkie facilitates weekly performing arts classes for students aged 5 to 18. She is committed to delivering inclusive programmes that foster confidence, creativity, and a sense of belonging among young individuals from diverse backgrounds and abilities. Wilkie applied for the Travel Gang Theatre Educator Scholarship to gain global insights into theatre education, aspiring to learn from industry leaders and bring back innovative ideas and international connections tailored for New Zealand’s youth.

The Travel Gang Theatre Educator Scholarship is presented in collaboration with Music Theatre International (MTI) Australasia, Junior Theatre Festival Australia, and JTF New Zealand. Mike King, co-director of Travel Gang, expressed admiration for the high calibre of all applicants, recognising the contributions of the ten finalists 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 decision on the scholarship recipient will be announced in mid-October 2025. King highlighted the importance of acknowledging the hard work and dedication of theatre educators, many of whom go unrecognised for their significant contributions.

“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,” he emphasised.

Wilkie’s journey as a finalist exemplifies the commitment to nurturing young talent in the performing arts and highlights the vital role of educators in shaping future generations.