Travel Gang Theatre Educator Scholarship Winner
Victorian scoops coveted Theatre Educator Scholarship to USA
Rebecca Fortuna, owner and director of Red Theatricals in Templestowe and Bulleen in Victoria, has been announced this year’s recipient of the coveted Travel Gang Theatre Educator's scholarship, winning the trip of a lifetime, valued at $14,000.
In January, Rebecca will join a team of educators mentoring the 2026 Aussie All Stars who will be representing Australia at the international Junior Theatre Festival (JTF) in Atlanta. As part of the 19 day trip , before the festival, the group will spend eight days in New York City, staying in
the heart of Broadway and undertaking rehearsals and workshops with a range of theatre professionals.
The last stop of the tour is Los Angeles, where Rebecca will join the students for a Performing Arts Workshop in Disneyland, yet another invaluable experience to help inspire and enrich her teaching expertise.
The esteemed scholarship is a collaboration between Travel Gang and industry partners, Music Theatre International (MTI) Australasia , Junior Theatre Festival JTF Australia and JTF New Zealand.
MTI Australasia’s Managing Director, Stuart Hendricks, said it is inspiring to see the profound impact the scholarship experience has had on previous recipients.
“In New York, Rebecca will not only get to see some of th e world’s best theatre , she will get to work with Broadway professionals in a Broadway rehearsal room. At the Junior Theatre Festival, she will collaborate with outstanding theatre educators from across the globe. Then in Disneyland, she’ll again be part of an exclusive behind the scenes experience, working with Disney performers she would never come into contact with otherwise. From past winners we know, these unique experiences and the fresh insights they bring will inspire her work back home,” said Stuart.
Open to educators across Australia and New Zealand, the prestigious annual Theatre Educator scholarship recognises excellence in performing arts education for secondary school aged children.
Travel Gang Co director, Mike King, said the fully funded adventure offers the winner unparalleled learning and cultural experiences.
“The 2026 scholarship finalists were selected from a wide, multitalented pool of applicants from Australia and New Zealand,” explained Mike.
“Rebecca was one of ten finalists, all of whom demonstrated deep commitment to student growth, fostering innovation in their arts programs, and providing leadership within their schools /studios and local communities.
“Rebecca’s application highlighted her experience as a sector leaderleader. Her strengths strengths include includee innovative programming in both studio and school contexts, a passion for student growth, and a commitment to commitment to her own professional development.
Rebecca’s ability to scale her impact across ability to scale her impact across communities and mentor future communities and mentor future educators made her an outstanding candidate.educators made her an outstanding candidate.
"In Red Theatricals, Rebecca has built an exceptional program dedicated to developing well--rounded young performers and mentoring the next generation of educators. Through her innovative teaching, large--scale musical productions, and partnerships with schools and professional artists, Rebecca has created opportunities which extend far beyond the classroom. She is an inspiring leader who empowers her community and demonstrates the transformative power of theatre education,” added Mike.
Rebecca was, understandably, delighted to hear she is this year’s winner. She said the trip will unlock unlock powerful experiences and fresh approaches an educator.
"Many of my students train with me for up to 12 years, so it’s essential that I continuously evolve my program to keep them challenged, engaged and motivated to excel as performers,” said Rebecca.
“As a theatre educator, my goal is to provide world--class training which which equips my students to thrive as performers.To achieve this, continuing my own my own education is essential.
"Observing rehearsals, workshops and training methods throughout the USA will introduce me to new skills and innovative approaches to musical theatre and ensure my students receive the highest quality education.“
“This scholarship will not only benefit me as an educator but also the community at large. This ripple effect of growth will empower teachers and students alike.
“I have dedicated more than more than half my life to fostering the journey of creativity for teen performers. I truly believe the performing arts and theatre play a vital role in the development of teenagers, offering far more than just an opportunity to sing, dance or act.
"Through theatre, teens learn to express themselves creatively, work collaboratively, and build confidence in a supportive environment. Theatre training teaches discipline, empathy, resilience, and communication , skills which which are essential not only on stage, but in life. Most importantly, the arts give young people a powerful voice and a safe space to explore who they are and what they stand for.
“I’m profoundly grateful to Travel Gang for their commitment, via this outstanding scholarship, to championing theatre educators championing theatre educators who who are are dedicated to inspiring the next generation of stars,” concluded Rebecca.
To learn more about the scholarship scholarship program, visit:
https://www.travelgang.com.au/theatre-educator-scholarship
Rebecca is an award nominated stage and screen Actor who has toured nationally in Confetti & Chaos and Fawlty Towers. A dedicated Acting Coach, Director and Choreographer, she has trained young performers for 20 years, sharing her expertise and passion at her studio, Red Theatricalsand in high schools; most recently directing/choreographing Mamma Mia at Mullauna College. She is honoured to be the recipient of the 2026 Travel Gang Theatre Educator Scholarship and thanks her students and community for their support.
Read about the other nominees.