In a world-first collaboration, students from Australia, New Zealand, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada have united as the International All-Stars, an ensemble that showcases the power of musical theatre to transcend borders.

The program, created in partnership between Music Theatre International (MTI) and Travel Gang, brings together young performers who auditioned to secure their place. These students—some of the best “triple threats” in the world— met for the first time in New York City this weekend, where they began working with professional directors, choreographers, and music directors.

Leading the group is renowned UK-based theatre director Lotte Wakeham, who brings unparalleled experience to the program. Lotte was the associate director for the original West End and Broadway productions of Matilda the Musical and is currently the Artistic Director of the Octagon Theatre Bolton in the UK. This is a rare and invaluable opportunity for the students to learn from a director of her calibre.

As part of their New York experience, the International All-Stars will present a preview performance of Between the Lines JR. at the renowned Ripley Grier Studios. The group will perform for industry VIPs, including New York Times bestselling author Jodi Picoult, who co-wrote the musical with Timothy Allen McDonald.

The group is preparing to present their work at the annual Junior Theater Festival (JTF) in Atlanta, the largest celebration of young people in musical theatre. At JTF Atlanta, the International All-Stars will take centre stage as a featured main-stage performance, showcasing their work for an audience of over 8,000 festival attendees. 

Stuart Hendricks, program partner from Music Theatre International, highlighted the cultural significance of the project, “This program demonstrates the power of musical theatre to bring people together, binding different cultures through storytelling.”

Patrick Davies, a scholarship recipient from England, shared his excitement about being part of the program, “To be selected as part of this international group is a dream come true. The chance to perform with students from all over the world and to learn from professionals in New York is something I’ll never forget. I’m so grateful for this opportunity.”

The International All-Stars program reflects a commitment to accessibility and excellence. A scholarship, jointly provided by MTI and Travel Gang, ensured that financial barriers didn’t stand in the way of participation, allowing performers like Patrick to share their talents on a global stage.

Travel Gang Artistic Director, Dr. Shane Bransdon, said, “It’s inspiring to see young performers from such diverse backgrounds coming together. Theatre creates a common language, and this program offers a life-changing opportunity to connect, collaborate, and perform on a global stage.”

Joining the International All Stars in NY and Atlanta are the Aussie All-Stars - a group of students all from Australia who will be performing Mean Girls JR. at the Junior Theater Festival. 

With auditions attracting top talent, the International All-Stars and Aussie All-Stars are set to make their mark, offering a glimpse into the future of global youth theatre.