Performer Conway, 13, named in Aussie All Stars ensemble for Europe

GIFTED Medowie teenager Conway Oakhill-Saarenpaa has often dreamt of a prosperous career in the performing arts.

At the tender age of 13, the budding performer is well on the way to realising that goal after outstanding achievements on the theatrical stage.

Conway, a student at the Hunter School of Performing Arts, will showcase his acting, dance and vocal skills when he represents Australia at the Junior Theatre Festival (JTF) Europe in 2027.

He is one of a select band of young performers chosen to tour with the Aussie All Stars Travel Gang performance ensemble for international shows in London, Birmingham and Paris from 21 May to 6 June.

The ensemble comprises talented students from schools and theatre academies across Australia who work with world class industry professionals before representing the nation overseas.

Starting in London, the group will spend four days creating an adjudication performance in the famous Pineapple Studios.

The students then travel north to Birmingham for JTF Europe before heading to Paris for the Disneyland performing arts program.

A delighted Conway told News Of The Area that he was “extremely honoured” to have earned a place on the Aussie All Stars Travel Gang performance ensemble.

Earlier this year, Conway also won the Port Stephens Battle of the Arts 2025 and received $500 in prizemoney, which will now go towards his trip.

Conway is deeply involved in the local performing arts community with credits across Young People’s Theatre, Hunter Drama, High Street Productions, Hunter School of Performing Arts (HSPA) and the Very Popular Theatre Company.

The rising performer was also the recipient of HSPA’s Primary Vocalist of the Year Award for 2022, 2023 and 2024.

Conway will undertake a range of fundraising activities over the next 12 months and is keen to connect with local businesses open to supporting a young performer.

By Chris KARAS