Three Maltese students are embarking 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 participate in the prestigious JTF International All-Stars Programme for 2026, joining a select group of the world's most promising young musical theatre performers. This achievement is all the more remarkable considering the highly competitive nature of the programme and the students' impressive nominations and auditions at the Junior Theatre Festival Europe 2025 in Birmingham. The same year, Hoi Polloi Academy, the students' school, also received the Achievement in Dance Award for its production of Shrek JR., further solidifying their excellence in the field.
As International All-Stars, these three talented individuals will travel to New York City in January 2026, where they will collaborate with Broadway-based company iTheatrics to create a brand-new musical theatre production. The programme brings together top youth performers from the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and the United States, providing a unique opportunity for cultural exchange and artistic growth. During their time in New York, the students will engage in intensive rehearsals, attend Broadway masterclasses, witness professional performances, and immerse themselves in industry-standard rehearsal processes.
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 experience will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on their careers and personal development. Hoi Polloi Academy's Artistic Director, Marco Calleja, expressed his excitement and pride, stating, 'This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Having three of our students selected is overwhelming. They'll be representing HPA, Malta, and everything we believe in — creativity, collaboration, and growth.'
The students' preparation for this programme has been meticulous, involving months of familiarizing themselves with all musical material. Their level of readiness and performance during rehearsals will significantly influence casting decisions and the overall success of the ensemble. This selection marks 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. The community's support is crucial to ensuring that these talented individuals can fully immerse themselves in this extraordinary opportunity. As the students prepare to take Maltese talent to some of the world's biggest youth theatre stages, supporters can follow their progress through Hoi Polloi Malta's official social media channels, cheering them on every step of the way. Well done, girls!
