Imagine being a teenager, your heart pounding with dreams of the stage, and then...bam! You're chosen to represent your country on an international platform. That's exactly what happened to three incredibly talented students from Hoi Polloi Academy in Malta! They've been hand-picked for the prestigious JTF International All-Stars Programme 2026, placing them among the brightest young musical theatre stars on the planet. But here's where it gets controversial... some might say programs like these create unnecessary pressure for young performers. What do you think?
Emily Dimech, Erika Bonello, and Laura Cardona earned their coveted spots after shining brightly during nominations and auditions at the Junior Theatre Festival Europe 2025 held in Birmingham, UK. Their selection is even sweeter because it coincides with Hoi Polloi Academy receiving the Achievement in Dance Award for their fantastic production of Shrek JR. It's a double win for the academy, showcasing their commitment to excellence in all aspects of musical theatre. Talk about a year to remember!
So, what does it mean to be an International All-Star? In January 2026, these three rising stars will jet off to the dazzling lights of New York City. There, they'll dive headfirst into rehearsals, collaborating with other top-tier youth performers from the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and the United States to create an entirely new musical theatre production. This unique show is being developed by iTheatrics, a renowned Broadway-based company known for its innovative work in youth theatre. And this is the part most people miss... it's not just about performing; it's about the cultural exchange and collaboration with artists from different backgrounds.
Their New York adventure isn't just about rehearsals, though. The students will immerse themselves in the world of Broadway, attending masterclasses led by industry professionals, watching captivating professional productions, and experiencing the fast-paced, demanding rehearsal processes that define professional theatre. Think of it as a crash course in everything Broadway! The journey continues to Atlanta, Georgia, where they will perform on the main stage at JTF 2026, the world’s largest youth musical theatre festival. It's a huge platform, offering unparalleled exposure to agents, casting directors, and other influential figures in the industry.
"This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," exclaims Marco Calleja, Artistic Director of Hoi Polloi Academy. "To have three of our students selected is overwhelming. They’ll be representing HPA, Malta, and everything we believe in — creativity, collaboration, and growth.” Calleja's pride is palpable, and rightfully so. It's a testament to the dedication and hard work of the students, the faculty, and the entire Hoi Polloi Academy community.
The road to the JTF International All-Stars Programme is paved with preparation. Months before arriving in New York, the students are already hard at work, familiarizing themselves with the music, lyrics, and choreography of the new musical. Rehearsals begin immediately upon arrival, and casting auditions take place on the very first day! To ensure everyone is ready, participants receive early access to scripts, vocal tracks, and choreography for Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile JR, a brand-new musical that is currently in development. Their level of preparation and performance during these initial rehearsals will directly influence casting decisions and the overall success of the ensemble. No pressure, right? But the experience of performing a brand new piece is invaluable.
The selection of Emily, Erika, and Laura is a significant achievement, not only for the students themselves but also for the entire Hoi Polloi Malta community, which includes the Academy, Theatre Company, and Creative Hub. This vibrant ecosystem is dedicated to nurturing and promoting Maltese talent on the international stage. It's a powerful example of how investing in the arts can create opportunities for young people to shine.
To support these talented young performers, Hoi Polloi Academy is actively seeking sponsorship opportunities to help cover travel, accommodation, and participation costs. Every contribution will help ensure that these students can fully embrace this incredible experience. If you're interested in supporting their journey, reach out to Hoi Polloi Academy! Supporters can also follow the students’ progress through Hoi Polloi Malta’s official social media channels as they prepare to take Maltese talent onto some of the world’s biggest youth theatre stages. It's a chance to witness their growth, celebrate their achievements, and be inspired by their passion.
So, what do you think? Does Malta have what it takes to become a major player on the international youth theatre scene? Are programs like these beneficial for young performers, or do they create undue pressure? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
