Three Maltese students are set to embark on a life-changing journey to New York City, thanks to their exceptional talent and dedication. Emily Dimech, Erika Bonello, and Laura Cardona have been selected to join the prestigious JTF International All-Stars Programme for 2026, an opportunity that will place them among the world's most promising young musical theatre performers.
The trio's selection came after a rigorous process of nominations and auditions at the Junior Theatre Festival Europe 2025 in Birmingham. This achievement is particularly special as it coincides with Hoi Polloi Academy's recognition for its outstanding work in dance, receiving the Achievement in Dance Award for their production of Shrek JR.
As International All-Stars, these talented performers will travel to the heart of the theatre world, New York City, in January 2026. There, they will collaborate with a Broadway-based company, iTheatrics, to create and rehearse a brand-new musical theatre production. This programme brings together the best young performers from the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and the United States, offering a unique and diverse learning experience.
During their time in the Big Apple, the students will engage in an immersive experience, working as part of an international ensemble, attending Broadway masterclasses, and witnessing professional productions. They will also delve into industry-level rehearsal processes, gaining invaluable insights into the world of musical theatre.
The journey doesn't end in New York; it continues to Atlanta, where the students will perform on the main stage at JTF 2026, the world's largest youth musical theatre festival. This is a significant milestone not only for the students but also for the entire Hoi Polloi Malta community, which includes the Academy, Theatre Company, and Creative Hub, all dedicated to showcasing Maltese talent on the international stage.
Hoi Polloi Academy is actively seeking sponsorship opportunities to support the students' journey, covering travel, accommodation, and participation costs. This support is crucial to ensure that the students can fully immerse themselves in this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
As the students prepare for their departure, supporters can follow their progress through Hoi Polloi Malta's official social media channels. This will provide a glimpse into the students' journey as they take Maltese talent to some of the world's biggest youth theatre stages. The entire community is cheering for these talented individuals, and their success will undoubtedly inspire future generations of Maltese artists.
Congratulations to Emily, Erika, and Laura! Their hard work and dedication have paid off, and they are about to embark on a journey that will shape their careers and leave a lasting impact on the world of musical theatre.
