🇳🇿 NZ is in the room where it happens 🇳🇿 — and now we need your support to get there.

Sienna Wheeler has been appointed to the international organising committee of the Sapperlot International Youth Theatre Festival in Italy: a leadership role within a major European youth theatre festival. It is a position of responsibility, trust, and influence.

In this role, Sienna will contribute directly to festival planning, programme development, workshop coordination, post‑performance discussions, and international youth theatre forums. Her appointment reflects international confidence in New Zealand youth leadership and in the work being led by Theatre New Zealand.

Sienna is currently training at the National Academy of Singing and Dramatic Art (NASDA) and has been supported by Theatre New Zealand to step into this international leadership role. Her presence at Sapperlot places Aotearoa New Zealand inside the decision‑making structures of international youth theatre, not as observers, but as contributors. You become part of making history!

Funds raised through this campaign will support Sienna’s travel from Christchurch to Italy, accommodation and meals outside the festival period, insurance, and the additional costs associated with long‑haul international travel.

Your support does not simply help someone attend an overseas event.

It helps ensure that New Zealand youth leadership is present, prepared, and influential on the world stage: now!

Thank you for backing leadership, responsibility, and the next chapter of New Zealand community and youth theatre.