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Louise Wilkie, a performing arts educator from Centrestage Youth Theatre in Ōrewa, has been named a finalist for the 2026 Travel Gang Theatre Educator Scholarship.
The scholarship is a highly competitive award recognising outstanding theatre educators across Australia and New Zealand.
Louise as one of 10 finalists vying to win a trip of a lifetime, valued at A$14,000. If successful, in January next year, she will join a team of educators mentoring 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 experience begins with eight days in New York city for rehearsals, Broadway shows, and workshops, followed by three days at the festival in Atlanta, and concludes with eight days in Los Angeles, including participation in the Disneyland Performing Arts Workshop.
After growing up with Centerstage Youth Theatre, Wilkie is an experienced choreographer and director who has worked on numerous productions around Auckland. She holds a Master’s degree in Dance Movement Therapy and is the co-founder of Smoky Mirror Arts Company, which supports rangatahi with disabilities.
In her role at Centrestage Youth Theatre, she facilitates weekly performing arts classes for students aged 5-18, delivering inclusive programmes that build confidence, creativity, and a sense of belonging for young people of all backgrounds and abilities.
Louise applied for the Travel Gang Theatre Educator Scholarship to gain global insights into theatre education. She says she hopes to learn from industry leaders and bring back fresh ideas and international connections to adapt for New Zealand’s diverse youth.
The Travel Gang Theatre Educator Scholarship is delivered in partnership with Music Theatre International (MTI) Australasia, Junior Theatre Festival Australia and JTF New Zealand.
Travel Gang co-director Mike King acknowledged the exceptional quality of all applicants and applauded the 10 finalists for their valuable contributions to the performing arts community.
“These educators foster innovation and growth in their communities. This scholarship is about honouring their impact.”
The final winner of the scholarship will be announced in mid-October.
“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,” King says.
